With so many possible picking motions, how do players know which one to use? Amazingly, they figure it out subconsciously.

The tendency to choose one type of joint motion over others is a universal characteristic of picking technique. It is a product of the subconscious approach used by the motor system to simplify the vast task of coordinating the nearly limitless motion possibilities afforded by nerves, muscles and joints. In this section, we’ll learn how primary motion works, and apply a few simple hands-on tests for learning which kind you’re making.