How many times have you sat down with your guitar intending to practice, only to wind up playing a long noodling session?
Maybe you don’t know what to practice or can’t decide what aspect of your playing to work on.
If this sounds familiar, read on. We’re going to help you create some simple guidelines that you can follow during your practice session. We’re also going to equip you with plenty of examples to help you get started on the road to Power Practicing!
PREPARATION
There are three fundamental factors that are often responsible for making or breaking a practice session. They are location, materials, and time allotment.
1. Location
Where you practice can be just as important as what you practice. Find a room where you’ll have the fewest distractions—e.g. television, computer, clutter and conversation. And while you’re at it, park your cellphone in another room so you won’t be bothered by incoming calls or texts.
On the other hand, if it’s impossible to isolate yourself, try playing through a set of headphones to help block out distracting sounds
2. Materials
Second, make sure all of your equipment—including guitar, amp, recorder, tuner and metronome—as well as materials—method book, magazines, paper and pencil—are within reach.
3. Time Allotment
Finally, remain acutely aware of how much time you’ve used and how much you have left. The last thing you want to do is waste all of your time with the first item on your practice list. A timer can be a valuable tool to help you keep track of the time you spend on each task.
CREATE A PRACTICE SCHEDULE
Often the hardest part about practicing is knowing what to practice.
In times of indecision, it helps to