Learn how to confidently hit the strings on every beat using downstrokes. This is your first step to developing clean rhythm and hand control.
Once you’re comfortable with downstrokes, we introduce upstrokes, played on the “&” between beats.
Quarter Notes (1 2 3 4): One strum per beat.
Eighth Notes (1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &): Two strums per beat.
Once you know how eighth notes work, you can begin experimenting with which beats you strum on — and more importantly, which ones you skip. This is how most real-world strumming patterns are formed.
With that foundation in place, scroll down and begin practicing with each pattern. Each one includes visual timing, audio playback, and helpful descriptions. By the end of this series, you’ll be able to:
One downstroke on beat 1.
Downstrokes on beats 1 and 2.
Add an upstroke after beat 1.
Downstrokes on 1, 2, 3.
Add upstroke between 2 and 3.
Alternate strokes for groove.
Introduce spacing after upbeat.
Downstroke on each beat.
Ending adds syncopation.
Push strums early.
Upbeat before last beat.
Feel of three inside four.
Downstrokes for structure.
Swung upstroke ending.
Every strum hit for control.
Unlock Rhythm, Groove, and Feel with Confidence Strumming is more than just moving your hand over the strings — it’s where rhythm, timing, and musicality meet. Whether you're playing a quiet ballad or driving a rock anthem, your strumming pattern controls the energy of the song.
This page introduces you to essential strumming patterns every guitarist should know. From simple quarter note downstrokes to more intricate eighth note combinations with upstrokes, you'll learn not just how to strum, but how to feel the groove and stay locked in with any beat.
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