Pattern One
The first set of licks will be based upon the Minor Pentatonic scale within pattern one. This is the most popular pattern used in modern lead guitar styles. The pattern is movable, i.e., it can be played in different keys by changing its location on the fretboard. The following diagram shows pattern one in the key of G. Notice that the scale begins on the third fret of the sixth string (a G note).
Pattern One - Minor Pentatonic Scale
If you need to play this pattern in a different key, move the entire pattern up or down the fretboard to the desired fret. The first note in the pattern (on the sixth string) will indicate the key the scale is in. For example, if you want to play in the key of F, begin the pattern on the first fret of the sixth string (an F note). If you wish to play in the key of C, then begin the pattern on the eighth fret of the sixth string (a C note). Therefore the note on the sixth string will determine the key.
