Hey there,


I've noticed that my pinky tends to go way further off the fretboard than any of my other fingers, when I'm not using it for playing. Because of this there is a slight interval between the note i play with my pinky, and the previous note, since it takes longer for my pinky to arrive on the fretboard. Anyone else have this problem? Is it just a matter of practicing, to get into better habits?

Jax

Definitely something you teach yourself... make it habitual to use it often...but try not to so much...or unless you're comfortable with that sort of thing.

I remember once reading the words of Kirk Hammett...in which he said, "If you're not going to practice with it, or use it, cut it off".

Jax

if you practice with a metronome and you get it right, precise and on time it doesnt matter where your finger is. Your insticts will fix any finger position.

Ibanick

you should always play whatever way is most comfortable for you..there is no rule....but if your starting out you should regularly excercise it and you will see it will get closer to the neck naturally.....i good way is to use you pinkie instead of your third finger during your normal practice...everything!

Buy yourself a copy of Troy Stetina's "Speed Mechanics for Lead Guitar," it's basically a guide to the physiological side of being a guitarist, focusing on removing physical barriers to speed. At the VERY least, look at the preview pages on amazon.com.

It's a great book, easily as good as it's reputed to be, if not better.

-D

I had played without my pinkies for some years, but then I decided to just use it to improve my technique... after a while you just find out that your pinkie finds it's role in your playing. For some it's no role, and some can use it as if it's their ring finger.
But to get on topic: I agree with axeshredder and the others, just try some things and see how it works out and what's the most comfortable for you