Scale Explorer
Explore guitar scales with an interactive fretboard. Choose any root note and scale type to see the notes and fingering positions. See scale notes highlighted on a guitar fretboard.
C Major (Ionian)
Formula: W W H W W W H
W = whole step (2 frets) · H = half step (1 fret) · Aug2 = augmented 2nd (3 frets)
Guitar Fretboard (Standard Tuning)
Filled circles are scale notes · Orange = root note
How to Use the Scale Explorer
Choose a Root Note
Select the tonic (starting note) of your scale. For example, C for C major, A for A minor.
Choose a Scale Type
Select from 11 scales including major, minor, pentatonic, blues, and modes like Dorian or Mixolydian.
Read the Fretboard
Purple circles show all scale notes across the fretboard. Orange circles mark the root note. Use this to find scale patterns anywhere on the neck.
Why Use This Tool
Visual Fretboard
See every scale note position across all 12 frets in standard tuning — find patterns and positions you didn't know existed.
11 Scale Types
From major and minor to blues, modes, and pentatonics — all the scales guitarists actually use.
Theory Included
Each scale shows the formula (W/H steps) and scale degrees so you understand why the notes are chosen.
Instant Updates
Change root or scale type and the diagram updates instantly. Great for comparing scales on the fly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a major and minor scale?
The major scale has a raised 3rd, 6th, and 7th compared to the natural minor. Major sounds bright and happy; minor sounds darker and more emotional.
What is a pentatonic scale?
A pentatonic scale uses 5 notes instead of 7. The minor pentatonic is the most popular scale in rock and blues guitar — it's forgiving and sounds great over most chord progressions.
What are modes?
Modes are rotations of the major scale. Dorian is a minor-sounding mode used in jazz and rock. Mixolydian is a major-sounding mode with a flattened 7th, common in rock and country.
Why does the fretboard show standard tuning only?
Standard tuning (EADGBE) is the most common tuning. The fretboard shows all 12 frets with notes highlighted so you can find the scale in any position on the neck.