E Major chord in the 1st position below.

E – Root
G# – 3rd
B – 5th

When played on guitar the notes are in this order E, B, E, G#, B, E. The E is the Root note. G# is the 3rd note in the E major scale and the B is the 5th note in the E major scale.

We strum all 6 strings for the E chord. The E major chord can be played in many places on the guitar. In this example, we are talking about the E in 1st or open position.

Practice strumming the E chord as well as picking the notes individually. Switch between the E, G, D and C major chords. Try and become smooth with your transitions.