A major pentatonic scale (guitar)
The A major pentatonic scale shown across the whole guitar neck. Its notes areA – B – C♯ – E – F♯ — the filled dots are the root. Free to print or download below.

How to play the A major pentatonic scale
- Find the root notes. The filled dots are the root note (A); the open dots are the other scale notes. Start and end on a root to hear the A major pentatonic sound.
- Play it across the neck. The diagram shows every A major pentatonic note from the open strings up to the 15th fret, so you can play the scale in any position.
- Use it to solo. Once the shape is under your fingers, improvise over backing chords in A, always resolving to a root note.
Notes in the A major pentatonic scale
The A major pentatonic scale is a five-note scale that sounds sweet and open over major chords — a staple of country, pop and folk lead playing. Its notes are A – B – C♯ – E – F♯.
A major pentatonic scale — frequently asked questions
What notes are in the A major pentatonic scale?
The A major pentatonic scale contains the notes A – B – C♯ – E – F♯.
What is the A major pentatonic scale used for?
It is a five-note scale that sounds sweet and open over major chords — a staple of country, pop and folk lead playing.
Is the A major pentatonic scale diagram free to print?
Yes — print it or download the PDF or PNG for free, with no account or sign-up.