The CAGED System on Guitar

The CAGED system is a popular method used by guitarists to navigate the fretboard and understand how chords are connected. It is based on the five common open chord shapes: C, A, G, E, and D. By learning these shapes, you can move them up and down the fretboard to play chords in different keys and unlock the full potential of the guitar.

1. C Shape

The C shape is derived from the open C chord and can be moved to create barre chords up the neck. Here's the basic C shape:

e|---0---| B|---1---| G|---0---| D|---2---| A|---3---| E|-------|

2. A Shape

The A shape is based on the open A chord and, like the C shape, can be moved to form barre chords. Here's the basic A shape:

e|-------| B|---1---| G|---2---| D|---2---| A|---0---| E|-------|

3. G Shape

The G shape is derived from the open G chord and can be moved across the fretboard as well. Here's the basic G shape:

e|---3---| B|---3---| G|---0---| D|---0---| A|---2---| E|---3---|

4. E Shape

The E shape is based on the open E chord and, like the other shapes, can be moved to create barre chords. Here's the basic E shape:

e|---0---| B|---0---| G|---1---| D|---2---| A|---2---| E|---0---|

5. D Shape

The D shape is derived from the open D chord and can be moved up the neck. Here's the basic D shape:

e|---2---| B|---3---| G|---2---| D|---0---| A|-------| E|-------|

Practice these shapes in different keys and start connecting them together to unlock the full potential of the CAGED system. Happy playing!