Parts of the Guitar

Before you start playing, it's important to know the parts of your guitar. Understanding the anatomy of your instrument helps you follow instructions, communicate with other musicians, and take proper care of your guitar.

Every guitar—whether acoustic or electric—shares these basic parts:

• Headstock – The top of the guitar where the tuning pegs live
• Tuning Pegs (Machine Heads) – Turn these to tune each string
• Nut – The small piece at the top of the neck that holds the strings in place
• Neck – The long part you grip with your fretting hand
• Frets – The metal strips across the neck that divide it into notes
• Fretboard (Fingerboard) – The front surface of the neck where you press strings
• Body – The large part that produces or amplifies sound
• Sound Hole – The opening in acoustic guitars that projects sound
• Bridge – Anchors the strings to the body
• Saddle – The piece on the bridge that the strings rest on

Take a moment to look at your own guitar and find each part. This foundation will help everything else click into place.