If you arrived at this page means that you are not sure of the way you hold your pick. Well, here you will find the simple and basic information you need.

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The first thing to know is that every famous guitarist holding the pick in a different way. Each has its own style. So there is not a right way and many wrong ways but every good guitar player holds the pick according to his style, the genre of music, his favorite sound, his instrument (acoustic or electric) and many other things.
Here I propose the basic position from which you have to start, you can then change that over the years been experimenting, as your playing style evolves.

How to hold the pick playing lead

A medium (0.73 to 0.88) or heavy pick (0.88 to 1.14) allows more control and speed.
For solos and lead guitar place the pick on to the side of your index finger, your index finger is curled, then place your thumb onto the pick to keep it clamped between your thumb and finger. The curled first finger is important, and gives the wrist a more relaxed and powerful action.
This position gives great stability to pick, it does not move and allows fast picking.
Take a look to the picture below.

HOW TO HOLD THE PICK

A Beginner’s Guide To Pick Your Guitar

How to hold the pick playing chords

A lighter (0.50 to 0.73), thinner pick give a quieter, softer sound while strumming.
For strumming place the pick on to the side of your index finger, the index finger is not curled but it is pointed at the tip of the pick, then place your thumb onto the pick to keep it clamped between your thumb and finger. This position allows the pick to move and bend between fingers, good for accompaniments and rhythm.
Take a look to the picture below.