Intervals: a quick primer

An interval is the distance between two pitches, measured in steps (half steps on guitar = one fret). The same interval can sound in different registers; what matters is the quality (major, minor, perfect, diminished, augmented).

Inside a triad

A major triad stacks a major third then a minor third above the root (or root, major third, perfect fifth). A minor triad uses a minor third then a major third (root, minor third, perfect fifth). Our Chord builder colors root, third, and fifth so you can see those intervals on the neck.

Scales

Scales are a series of intervals from a tonic. The major scale’s whole- and half-step pattern creates the familiar “bright” sound. Use the Scale builder to see interval patterns laid out on the fretboard.