F major pentatonic scale on guitar
The F major pentatonic scale has 5 notes: F, G, A, C and D. Five notes from the major scale with the two “tense” notes (the 4th and 7th) left out. Almost nothing can clash, which makes it a favourite for sweet, singable melodies and country and pop solos.
Notes in F major pentatonic
- Formula
- 1 2 3 5 6
- Step pattern
- W – W – W+H – W – W+H
- Notes
- 5
Tap a note to hear it.
F major pentatonic across the neck
Every F major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets in standard tuning. Filled dots are the root, F. A good place to start: F on the low E string is at fret 1, so play the notes between frets 0 and 4 first, then move up the neck.
Intervals
| Degree | Note | Interval from F |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | F | Root |
| 2 | G | Major 2nd |
| 3 | A | Major 3rd |
| 5 | C | Perfect 5th |
| 6 | D | Major 6th |
Chords to play F major pentatonic over
The F major pentatonic scale fits the main chords of the F major key:
Related scales
- It uses exactly the same five notes as D minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
- Add the 4th and 7th back and you have the full F major scale.
Questions
What notes are in the F major pentatonic scale?
F, G, A, C, D. Its formula is 1 2 3 5 6.
Where do I start the F major pentatonic scale on guitar?
F on the low E string is at fret 1, so play the notes between frets 0 and 4 first. The fretboard map on this page shows every F major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets.
What scales are related to F major pentatonic?
It uses exactly the same five notes as D minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
More scales
Major pentatonic in every key
Other scales from F