Tool
The capo chart that answers back.
A capo raises every string by one semitone per fret; the shape stays the same. Use the two-way calculator to go from shape to sound, or from a target key back to the capo position that gets you there.
Sounds like
D
C shape + capo 2 = D.
Capo position
The one rule
Every fret raises the sounding pitch by one semitone. The shape stays the same; the chord name moves up.
Practical capo range is 0–7. Higher positions can sound cramped and may need a tuning check.
What a capo actually does
A capo is a clamp that presses all six strings against a fret. It shortens the vibrating length of every string, so the guitar sounds higher. Your fingers keep using the same open shapes. That is why a capo is so useful for singers: you can move a song into a comfortable key without learning a new set of chords.
The only formula you need
Sounding chord = shape chord + capo fret. Each fret is one semitone. A G shape with the capo on 2 sounds as A. A C shape with the capo on 3 sounds as E♭. When you pass B, wrap back to C.
Common capo examples
| Shape | Capo | Sounds like |
|---|---|---|
| G shape | 2 | A |
| G shape | 5 | C |
| C shape | 2 | D |
| C shape | 3 | E♭ |
| C shape | 5 | F |
| D shape | 2 | E |
| A shape | 2 | B |
| E shape | 3 | G |
Capo placement and tuning
Put the capo just behind the fret, close to the metal but not on top of it. Clamp it firmly enough to stop buzzing. Then check the tuning: a capo that is too tight pulls notes sharp, especially on the low E and the B string. If the guitar sounds out of tune only when the capo is on, move it back slightly or loosen the clamp.
Capo or barre chord?
A capo keeps open strings ringing and is easier on the hand. A barre chord lets you move without a capo and is useful when you need to change key in the middle of a set. They are tools for different jobs; neither is “cheating”.
What key am I in with a capo on the 3rd fret?
It depends on the shape. A C shape with the capo on 3 sounds as E♭; a G shape with the capo on 3 sounds as B♭. Add the capo fret to the shape's root, wrapping at 12.
Does a capo change the tuning of my guitar?
No. The strings are still in standard tuning; the capo shortens the vibrating length, so every string sounds higher. The shapes stay the same.
Can I use a capo on an electric guitar?
Yes. A capo works on any steel-string or nylon-string guitar. On electric guitars with a very low action, check that the capo does not pull the strings sharp.
Where exactly should the capo go?
Just behind the fret, not on top of it. Clamp it with enough pressure to stop buzzing, but not so much that it pulls the strings sharp. Re-check tuning after clamping.
Is it better to use a capo or barre chords?
A capo is easier on the hand and keeps open strings ringing. Barre chords let you change key without a capo. Use the capo when the song uses open shapes; use barres when you need to move freely.