Barre chords use the same shapes to play up and down the fretboard as different chords. This is done by barring across 6 or 5 strings, creating a movable guitar nut. A relatively few shapes can play thousands of chords.

Learning barre chords can be difficult and frustrating. It requires finger and hand strength, along with proper technique. A lot of people start learning barre chords and give up because they don't come easily. But, the frustration and work to learn them is more than worth it. A lot of people say learning barre chords takes you from a beginner to a more advanced player.

There are a lot of sites out there that promise to make playing barre chords easier. These are some of my favorite tips.

• Lower your thumb to about halfway down the neck
• Use the edge of your index finger
• Keep your elbow tucked in
• Place the index finger close to the fret
• Keep your index finger straight
• Move your index finger up or down
• Keep the wrist low, with as little bend as possible
• Use some arm strength, pulling the guitar into your body

Try the following practice technique:

• First lay down the barre
• Holding the barre, lay down two fingers for minor chord
• Add the middle finger for a major chord
• Life the pinky for a 7th chord

There seems to be some differing opinions on which fingers you should lay down first when fretting a barre chord. Some say to first place the other fingers before placing the index barre. But, the best, most physiogically sound, method is to put the barre down first, then place the rest of the fingers.

Don't give up on barre chords. They are extremely important. Don't get frustrated and give up. With time, patience and determination you'll be playing barre's up and down the fretboard.