G5/D guitar shapes

Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions

Showing 8 of 127 playable shapes

About the chord

G5 / D (1st inversion)

G5/D is the G5 / D (1st inversion) guitar chord with D in the bass. It uses the notes G and D and the interval formula 1-5.

The G5 power chord (5th), consisting of the root (G5) and perfect fifth D, 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 D in the bass, this voicing functions as the 1st inversion of G5.

Also written as G5 and G(no 3)/D.

Root note: G

Bass note: D

Chord tones: 2

Playable shapes: 127

Chord tones

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

Shape 2

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1 Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd string.
2 Place the 2nd finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string.
3 Place the 3rd finger on the 5th fret of the 5th string.
4 Strum from the 5th 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.

D Perfect Fifth 5

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

Quick answers

What notes are in G5/D?

G5/D uses the notes G and D. Its interval formula is 1-5.

What is another name for G5/D?

G5/D is also written as G5 and G(no 3)/D.

How do you play G5/D on guitar?

Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd string. Place the 2nd 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