StringLogic

CAGED System

Learn the CAGED system to unlock the entire fretboard. Connect chord shapes and scale patterns across all positions.

Quick Select
C

C - C Shape

Root on 5th string

Based on the open C chord. Root on 5th string.

C using C shape:

C (C shape)×321

All C Positions

C Arpeggio - All Positions

C Arpeggio

All chord tones across the fretboard

Notes:
CEG
EADGBE13691215EGCEGCEGCEGCEGCEGCEGCEGCEG
Chord Tones:
Root (C)
M3 (E)
P5 (G)
8
Root positions
9
M3 positions
9
P5 positions

All 5 C CAGED Shapes

C Arpeggio

The C arpeggio consists of the notes C - E - G.

IntervalsM3P5R
NotesCEG

Below are the CAGED arpeggio shapes for the C arpeggio on guitar. The fretboard diagrams contain the notes, intervals, and recommended fingerings.

C Shape Arpeggio

12345EGEGCECEGCGNotes
12345M3P5M3P5RM3RM3P5RP5Intervals
12345OOOOOOOOOOOFingerings

C Shape Scale

The scale pattern that fits the C chord. Chord tones are highlighted.

12345EBGDAEFGACDEABCEFGBCDFGANotes
12345375263456R2367R3457R2456Intervals

C Triads - All 5 CAGED Shapes

Triad positions (Root, 3rd, 5th) for all CAGED shapes across the fretboard.

C Shape

Fret 1

12345EGEGCECEGCG
A Shape

Fret 4

45678CEGCGEC
G Shape

Fret 6

678910CGECEGC
E Shape

Fret 9

910111213ECEGCGE
D Shape

Fret 11

1112131415EGCGECEG

What is the CAGED System?

The CAGED system is a method for understanding the guitar fretboard based on five basic open chord shapes: C, A, G, E, and D. These shapes can be moved up and down the neck to play any chord in any position.

Each shape connects to the next, creating a continuous pattern across the fretboard. This system helps you:

  • Find any chord anywhere on the neck
  • Connect scale patterns to chord shapes
  • Understand arpeggios in each position
  • Improvise more freely across the fretboard

Chord Qualities: The CAGED system works for all chord types, not just major chords. Try selecting different qualities like minor, 7th, maj7, and more to see how each shape adapts.