The six open strings
Standard guitar tuning is E A D G B E from thickest to thinnest. The two E strings are different octaves. Pluck one open string at a time and let the tuner settle. Quiet the other strings with your hand so they do not confuse the reading.
Sharp and flat
A sharp reading means the pitch is above the target; flat means it is below. Turn the correct tuning peg a little at a time, picking again after each small adjustment. Check which string the peg moves before turning. If you are unfamiliar with your instrument, make small changes and ask a teacher or guitar shop for help.
Approach the note gently
If you go past the pitch, lower it slightly and approach again with small adjustments. Recheck all six strings after one pass; changing string tension can affect the others. Avoid large turns when a string already feels unusually tight.
Microphone or clip-on?
A clip-on tuner senses vibration and is useful in a noisy room. A microphone tuner works best in a quiet space and needs browser microphone permission. Chordharbor offers a free browser tuner with reference tones as well as microphone mode. You can choose the method that suits your setup.
If it still sounds wrong
Check that the tuner has identified the intended note, not just any nearby pitch. Old strings, a poor setup or pressing too hard can also affect how chords sound. Tuning is the first check, not a diagnosis of every problem. For persistent issues, ask someone who can inspect the instrument.
One Riff One Day editorial guide · Updated 31 October 2026