How Do You Practice Guitar with Metronome?

Maybe you’ve tried the metronome and found it frustrating.

You feel like the metronome causes mistakes.

But most advanced guitarists say the metronome is a useful tool.

Why?

It helps you improve technique and rhythm accuracy.

For more on WHY the metronome is helpful, check out my article Can the Metronome Really Be Your Friend?

For today, let’s focus on HOW to use the metronome.

You can either use a physical metronome or a metronome app.

You can even get a metronome in your browser by just doing a Google search of the word metronome.

Here are some keys to using the metronome well:

1. Play a Short Passage

When you’re new to the metronome, I suggest playing four measures, two measures, or even one measure. This will be much more successful than trying to play a whole piece.

2. Go Slow

If there’s a suggested tempo for the piece you’re playing, set the metronome to half tempo. If the tempo is quarter = 80, for example, start at quarter = 40. This will greatly increase your chance of playing accurately.

3. Pause to Think

Don’t just repeat your chosen passage over and over without stopping. After you play the passage once, let a few beats go by, and consider how you played. Choose a way to improve the next repetition. When you’re ready, play the passage again.

4. Gradually Increase Tempo

Try playing the passage four times in a row correctly before increasing the tempo. As you gain confidence and consistent accuracy, you can continue to move the tempo faster.  

Before you practice with a metronome, I suggest starting with a 10-minute Warmup.

If you would like a free PDF of my Warmup, click here.