Pickslanting Primer

The Cracking the Code Pickslanting Primer is our step-by-step guide to the fundamentals of guitar picking technique.

In addition to covering fundamentals like pick grip and picking motion, we’ll also take a detailed look at the techniques of legendary players like Yngwie Malmsteen, Eric Johnson, Michael Angelo Batio, John McLaughlin, and more.

There are two great ways to watch:

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Lesson

Getting Started

Learn more about the Pickslanting Primer and how to use it!

Choosing A Pick

With so many options available, how do you choose?

Pick Grip

Getting familiar with the many ways to hold a guitar pick

Testing Your Motions

Test drive common picking motions with these fun hands-on speed tests

Unlocking The Tremolo

Learn efficient motion with the simplest phrase in music

Understanding Escape Motion

Picking motions don't just go back and forth — they also go up in the air

Identifying Your Motion

Tips and tricks for determining which picking motion you're using

Wrist Motion

Mastering the most commonly used joint in picking motion

Forearm Motion

This fascinating joint is an important collaborator in many picking motions

Elbow Motion

The simplest joint in picking technique is also the fastest, and a capable choice as your core motion

Downward Pickslanting

Switching strings with the escaped upstroke

Upward Pickslanting

Switching strings with the escaped downstroke

Picking Motion

An overview of the most important concepts in picking motion

Technical Reference

A comprehensive reference with additional technical detail on core concepts