The Truth About Guitar Fingering – Why I Broke the Rule

So apparently I committed the cardinal sin of not using my middle finger in a riff. Guilty! But before you write me off - hear me out. In this lesson, we’re diving into fingering choices that go beyond beginner rules, and I’ll show you exactly why breaking this “rule” can be a smart move once you’re past the basics.

The whole idea behind the “one finger per fret” rule is solid for beginners. It keeps things clean, prevents lazy habits, and builds strength in all four fingers. But once you move past that stage, you’ll start to realize it’s not always the best approach. And today’s riff is a perfect example.

The riff in question starts on an A5 chord with my index finger and then jumps to notes on the third fret. You might expect me to use my middle finger here, but I don’t. I go straight to the ring finger. Why? Because that sets me up for a bend - even just a micro bend - and whenever you bend, you want multiple fingers behind the note for extra control and reduced strain. It’s a small detail, but it matters more than you think.

And then there’s the thumb. Dropping it down the neck, classical-style, forces my hand into a less relaxed posture. For stretches or certain chords, sure – drop the thumb. But in a relaxed riff like this, I keep it up top. It lets me stay looser, which is key if you plan on shredding or playing for hours without injury.

This riff is also a fun one to play. It’s a ZZ Top-style groove played with hybrid picking: I pick the A string and pluck the D and G strings with my right-hand fingers, like a piano attack. That sharp synchronization between thumb and fingers adds real punch. Plus, ghosting the strings in between helps me lock in the downbeats while prepping my fingers for the next strike. Tight and funky.

If you want to try it out yourself, you can grab the free tab over on my Patreon. But most importantly – don’t let old rules stop you from developing smarter habits. In the end, playing guitar should feel good, sound good, and let you express yourself freely. Even if it means breaking a few so-called rules now and then.

Thanks for watching!

- Kristofer