I-IV-V foundation
This is the core major-key movement behind blues, rock, country, and pop progressions.
Guitar chord companion
C Major Chord
Learn the C Major chord on guitar with chord tones, intervals, and interactive fretboard shapes.
1C3E5G
Playable C Major Chord voicings
Start with these chord-box shapes, then use the full fretboard below to see every chord tone.
C shape, open position
Low to high strings: x 3 2 0 1 0
A shape, fret 3
Low to high strings: x 3 5 5 5 3
G shape, fret 5
Low to high strings: 8 7 5 5 5 8
E shape, fret 8
Low to high strings: 8 10 10 9 8 8
D shape, fret 10
Low to high strings: x x 10 12 13 12
Full fretboard map
Every C Major Chord chord tone across the neck, with roots highlighted for quick orientation.
CAGED
Common progressions using C Major
Try these progressions to hear the chord in context instead of treating it as an isolated shape.
I-vi-IV-V loop
A familiar pop progression that balances a stable tonic with relative minor color.
Chord Tones
| Degree | Interval | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | R | C |
| 3 | 3 | E |
| 5 | 5 | G |
Compatible Scales
Formula
R – 3 – 5