How to play C Add 11 on guitar
These shapes are for standard tuning (E A D G B E). The first is the easiest, and the others sit in different positions on the neck. Playing in another tuning? Pick it above the diagrams and the shapes are redrawn for it.
Shape 1: x33010
- Press the 5th string (A) at fret 3.
- Press the 4th string (D) at fret 3.
- Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 1.
- Let the 3rd, 1st strings ring open.
- Don't play the 6th string.
Shape 2: 88(10)988 (from fret 8)
- Lay your index finger flat across the 1st to 6th strings at fret 8 (a barre).
- Press the 4th string (D) at fret 10.
- Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 9.
Shape 3: 885558 (from fret 5)
- Lay your index finger flat across the 2nd to 4th strings at fret 5 (a barre).
- Press the 6th string (E) at fret 8.
- Press the 5th string (A) at fret 8.
- Press the 1st string (e) at fret 8.
The numbers in the shape name list the fret for each string from the lowest (thickest) to the highest, with x meaning that string is not played and 0 meaning it rings open.
Notes in C Add 11
| Note | Role |
|---|---|
| C | 1 (root) |
| E | 3 |
| G | 5 |
| F | 11 |
The formula for C Add 11 (add4) is 1 3 5 11: take the root, then the scale degrees listed.
When to use Cadd11
Add11 chords add the fourth above the octave to a major triad. The eleventh sits right next to the third, so the sound is open and a little crunchy.
Other C chords
C, Cm, C7, Cmaj7, Cm7, Csus2, Csus4, C°, C+, Cadd9, C6, Cø7
Other add 11 chords on guitar
D♭add11, Dadd11, E♭add11, Eadd11, Fadd11, F♯add11, Gadd11, A♭add11, Aadd11, B♭add11, Badd11
Frequently asked questions
How do you play C Add 11 on guitar?
The easiest Cadd11 shape on guitar is x33010 (Press the 5th string (A) at fret 3. Press the 4th string (D) at fret 3. Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 1. Let the 3rd, 1st strings ring open. Don't play the 6th string.)
What notes are in C Add 11?
C Add 11 (Cadd11) contains the notes C E G F. The formula is 1 3 5 11.
How many guitar shapes are there for Cadd11?
There are many. This page shows 3 common ones at different positions, easiest first. Moving a barre shape up the neck gives the same chord type on other roots.
See C Add 11 on ukulele, check its notes in the chord finder, or transpose a whole song with the chord transposer. Browse the full guitar chord library.