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Some argue that alternate picking is a better technique than directional picking. In fact, guitar idols like John Petrucci and Paul Gilbert are known to use alternate picking with great success. However, alternate picking requires more movements, which may at times cause discomfort, muscle strain, and injury. Let's take a closer look at directional picking to uncover its many benefits.

Directional picking vs. alternate picking

Some people claim that directional picking is simply not as powerful as alternate picking-- that it often distorts rhythm and affects precision. However, distortion in rhythm and precision is often a result of lack of training. Guitar legends like Mike Walsh and George Bellas are known for using directional picking without losing precision and rhythmic control. It can be tricky at first, but with practice, some might find directional picking to be more efficient, as it lets you achieve greater speed. The key to this is stabilizing the forearm muscles with special training so you can gain better control.
Benefits of directional picking

With proper training and the right approach, directional picking can let you achieve better results in playing. The movements are minimized with this technique since the straight line approach is used. You go directly to the next string you're supposed to play, as opposed to following the predetermined picking patterns with alternate picking. With minimized movements required when picking, you can achieve greater speed, better flow and accuracy in time. Another benefit of directional pocking is that it minimizes muscle strain.

Though directional picking can help you play better and develop better techniques, it takes time to learn everything and master the art.

Playing the guitar is a simple and an easy thing to learn. It just takes some patience and an ear tuned to music. As with all skills, you will need to practice it to enhance it.

Guitar tip: developing speed and coordination skills

To develop your skills in playing the guitar, you must first have the time and effort to learn it. The most important thing in learning to play the guitar is to have one. You will never be able to apply what you read or learn from books if you don’t have a guitar to tinker with. To develop your skills in speed and coordination, you can always try playing a single song first. Try playing it over and over again until you get the hang of it. By using the guitar every time, you can then master how the cords are played and with less effort and time to do it.

Guitar lesson: learning different musical styles

It is important to note that learning different musical styles will be of great help in your quest to learn the guitar. Learning different styles like the blues or classical musical styles can enhance your skills in playing the guitar. Even if you don’t like a particular musical style, it is still important that you learn it. It may be difficult at first but in the end you will notice the big help it has done to your guitar skills.

Learning the guitar will take some time but your patience is the key to your success.