HOW TO PLAY

C# Minor

Beginners can find it hard to play the C#m chord (pronounced C sharp minor) because the version in most chord books has a barre in it. Here's what you would find in most chord books:

That's really, really difficult for beginners to do. But, don't worry, there is an easier way.

C#m Guitar Chord for Beginners

That's one way to play the chord. But if you're just getting started, there is an easier way that's just as valid. It looks like this:

First, put your first finger on the first string, fourth fret. Your second finger goes on the second string, fifth fret. And your next two fingers go on the third and fourth strings, at the sixth fret.

Not so different after all

If you look closely, you'll see that this version of the C#m chord is only one note different than the one with a barre—the only difference is that, in the barred version, you use your first finger to fret both the first and fifth strings, and in the non-barred version, you leave off that fifth string:

So there you go—two ways to play C#m. Go out there and rock out!

SEE ALSO

Chords that frequently accompany C#m in the key of E Major:

You should also be sure to brush up on B7—we've got an easy way to play it, complete with a little video:

And F sharp minor to round out your collection: