Because the seven modes can all be derived from the major scale, it can be confusing when trying to identify fingering patterns for the individual modes. Like the major scale (Ionian mode) all the modes can be found in five basic forms which cover the whole fretboard.
In each fingering pattern it is the positions of the root notes (key notes or tonics) which determine the name of the form. Shown below is the E form of C Ionian which is the same as the G form of D Dorian, except for the positions of the root notes.
E Form of C Ionian
G Form of D Dorian
The E form of C Ionian is also the same as the A form of E Phrygian, except for the positions of the root notes. Work out the equivalent patterns for all the other modes and then find the other four forms for each one.
E Form of C Ionian
A Form of E Phrygian
It is also important to be able to play parallel modes in the same position. Shown below is the C Form open position fingering for both C Lydian and C Aeolian.
C Form of C Lydian
C Form of C Aeolian