Pull-offs

Pull-offs are essentially a reverse hammer-on. Instead of hammering on to a higher note, simply "pull off" the higher note while fretting a lower note on the same string. A well-executed pull-off should result in smooth and connected phrasing without the disjointed sound of plucking individual notes.

Let's take a look at a simple pull-off, which is the opposite of the hammer-on we just did:

With this example, you'll start by playing the 3rd fret on the 2nd (B) string using your middle finger. Play this note a few times to see what it sounds like. Now, get your index finger in position by holding down the string on the 2nd fret. So both your index and middle fingers should be pushing down a string at this point! Now, play the note at the 3rd fret, and as it rings out, quickly and sharply "pull off" your middle finger. Much like the hammer-on, the note should now transform into the lower note that you are fretting on the 2nd fret.

Once again, if you can't hear the note properly, make sure you are pulling off very quickly and sharply, and that your index finger is pressed firmly on the target fret. To practice your pull-offs, you can use the same scales we showed you in free beginner guitar lesson 2. Simply play the scale backwards and use pull-offs to play as many notes as you can!