Tuning the Guitar

Using a Reference Pitch

Most electronic guitar tuners have a setting with an "A440" pitch that can be used to tune the 5th string. This string can then be referenced in order to tune rest of the instrument. After tuning all six strings, make sure to return to the 5th string to make sure it is still in tune.

Tuning "To Yourself"

When tuning the guitar, most sites recommend starting with the 5th or 6th string and moving across the fretboard from low to high using unison pitches. This method is fine for standard tuning, but some tunings can sound wrong if you use this method due to something called "well temperment". The best solution is usually to match any octaves to your reference pitch, and to trust your ear for any strings in between.