G/D guitar shapes

Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions

Showing 8 of 133 playable shapes

About the chord

G major / D (2nd inversion)

G/D is the G major / D (2nd inversion) guitar chord with D in the bass. It uses the notes G, B, and D and the interval formula 1-3-5.

The G major major chord, built from the root (G major), major third B, and perfect fifth D, delivers a bright, harmonious sound that feels resolved and complete. Its balanced structure makes it the foundation of Western harmony, widely used across all genres to convey joy, strength, and stability. With D in the bass, this voicing functions as the 2nd inversion of G major.

Also written as G, Gmaj/D, and GM/D.

Root note: G

Bass note: D

Chord tones: 3

Playable shapes: 133

Chord tones

GBD

Common guitar voicings

These are quick-start shapes for players who want the answer first and the deeper theory second.

Shape 1

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1 Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string.
2 Strum from the 4th string down.

Shape 2

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1 Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string.
2 Place the 2nd finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd string.
3 Strum from the 4th string down.

Notes & Intervals

Each note below shows how the chord is built from its root. This is the theory layer underneath the fretboard shapes.

G Unison (Root) 1

The root anchors the chord and defines its tonal center.

B Major Third 3

This note defines the chord's major quality and brings brightness to the sound.

D Perfect Fifth 5

The fifth reinforces stability and gives the chord its strong harmonic frame.

Quick answers

What notes are in G/D?

G/D uses the notes G, B, and D. Its interval formula is 1-3-5.

What is another name for G/D?

G/D is also written as G, Gmaj/D, and GM/D.

How do you play G/D on guitar?

Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string. Strum from the 4th string down.

Articles that reference this chord and explain how to use it in your playing.

Article Mar 4, 2025