Strumming issues!!?

Question

I've been learning guitar for about 4 months now..i'm learning on my own though..i'm usually used to strumming with just my thumb..and find it hard to do so with a pick..and when i do so..it sounds awful..cos i'm putting alot of pressure on the strings..so, any suggestions on as how i should hold and strum with a pick?

Answer 1

Make a fist and put the pick between your thumb and curled index finger. Thats the standard way to hold the pick. There are lots of other ways to hold it though based on ones amount of comfort. Also, dont leave to much pick out just leave the tip out to pluck the strings, then you can quickly and easily pluck strings faster. When you pluck the strings with the entire pick, it doesnt leave much room to pluck and that ,may be whats causing you to pluck so hard. Goodluck

Answer 2

Hold it between the thumb and first finger. You are probably holding your wrist tight. Roll the wrist in a natural up/down motion, very loose.Be sure the guitar is tuned properly.

Answer 3

Hey ASH

If it sounds bad when you hold the picking, it is because you are holding it too hard and secondly, get a softer pick for rhythm.

This way, it will solve your issues that you are referring to.