A'Pickin and A'Grinin'

Pickin'

Flat Picking

Flat picking is holding a standard (flat pick) between your thumb and your index finger.

Hybrid Picking

A flat pick used in conjunction with other fingers (usually the middle finger and the ring finger) is the most often used method by guitarists. This hybrid approach helps in a variety of styles like Travis picking, chicken pickin', and pedal-steel bends. Solid finger nails on the middle and ring fingers will give more of a "pop" when you play.

Thumb and Fingers Picking

Another option is to use a thumbpick, using the other fingers as partners in crime. This technique was first popularized by Chet Atkins and Merle Travis then further developed by Brent Maso and Scotty Anderson. This style allows for extreme speed, flexibility, and accuracy.

 

Grinin'

That's the easy part. Just enjoy - that's whats music is about. Don't be too serious or the fun will be gone. Here's a picture of fun and music.