Guitar fingerings apply to guitar modes, such as mixolydian, the harmonic minor, melodic minor, diminished scales and more. It is important to understand that the term guitar fingering often refers to two different aspects in regards to applying scales, chords and arpeggios on the fretboard. One aspect is the pattern or layout of the notes that make up the scale, chord or arpeggio on the fretboard. Since each has its own series of notes, how one patterns that on the fretboard is often called a fingering.

However, the second aspect that most accurately represents the term fingerings is not the pattern of the scale, chord or arpeggio, but what actual fingers are used to fret each note of the pattern. You may find this term used for either describing just a pattern or just the fingers to use on each fret for a pattern, or for both. It is good to be aware of this so you can be sure to clarify what it is that you are learning.

You will find that different players for example will use different fingers to play the same pattern on the fretboard. While some approaches to fingerings are more suitable and useable for most players in general, you will find that other players "use more uncommon approaches" that may work for them but may not be ideal for most players. Or some fingerings approaches may be commonly used, but either not efficient, innovative or outdated and you may find great benefit in learning them.

Mastery of the fretboard, speed and accuracy on the fretboard can be greatly affected by the fingerings you use. A great player can play almost anything better the most average players, but optimal playing for anyone can be easier to achieve with the right approach.

In addition, achieving a powerful understanding of your fretboard can enhanced or held up for a lifetime due to the methods you learn and use.