Article
How to Read Guitar Chord Diagrams
Learn how to read guitar chord diagrams quickly. Understand dots, numbers, Xs, Os, and finger positions so you can play any chord chart at sight.
D5/A guitar shapes
Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions
Showing 8 of 135 playable shapes
About the chord
D5 / A (1st inversion)
The D5 power chord (5th), consisting of the root (D5) and perfect fifth A, provides a bold, open sound without major or minor coloration. Its simplicity and neutrality make it a staple in rock, punk, and metal for driving rhythms and raw power. With A in the bass, this voicing functions as the 1st inversion of D5.
Root note: D
Bass note: A
Chord tones: 2
Playable shapes: 135
Chord tones
DA
Notes & Intervals
Each note below shows how the chord is built from its root. This is the theory layer underneath the fretboard shapes.
D Unison (Root) 1
The root anchors the chord and defines its tonal center.
A Perfect Fifth 5
The fifth reinforces stability and gives the chord its strong harmonic frame.
Related Articles
Articles that reference this chord and explain how to use it in your playing.
Article
How to Build Chords from Scratch: Guitar Chord Construction Guide
Learn chord construction step-by-step: intervals, triads, sevenths, and extensions. Build any chord from theory to fretboard.
Article
Chord Inversions on Guitar: Voicings That Sound Professional
Learn chord inversions on guitar to create smoother transitions, richer voicings, and more professional-sounding arrangements. Includes shapes and exercises.
Article
Power Chords: Shapes, Muting & Tone
Master power chords on guitar - learn the two essential shapes, proper palm muting technique, and how to get the best tone from clean to crunchy.