There are literally hundreds of very good exercises to help improve and maintain your chops. Some are very simple and others downright monstrous! If you're interested in a couple that are relatively easy but very effective, read on!

During my normal course of teaching, I find that all students reach a point at which their coordination needs some specific attention. They get to a level where they need a little push in left, right hand communication to get over a hump. That's when I suggest a couple of simple exercises to help both locate problem areas and improve overall skills. Out of all the drills I know, I consider these two the best bang for the buck in terms of overall maintenance and fair judgement of basic technique.

My first example helps to pinpoint trouble spots in basic technique and is explained in detail in the previous article. The second, our feature here, concentrates more on stretching and string to string picking or string crossing.

It's a simple uniform pattern concentrated at the end of the neck for maximum fret distance and uses just the top three strings to help improve wrist flexibility.

For finger placement, use your first finger for notes at the first fret, third finger for notes at the third fret and your little finger for notes at the fifth. Start slowly, aiming for clarity and smoothness while trying to keep your fingers hovering over the frets used.

With your pick hand, develop an alternate (up and down) picking pattern starting with a downstroke on the first note, up on the next etc.

Once you're comfortable with the technique, try picking up the pace gradually and remember to strive for accuracy. It's better to sound slow and clean rather than fast and sloppy.

This exercise might seem simple enough but it packs a good punch and does wonders for your general picky stuff. I know it can also be a little aggravating at first but give it some time and you will see results.

As with any new exercises, if you experience any pain or discomfort stop right away and take a break. It's possible you could damage some tendons if you're too eager and you can always come back to it as your abilities improve.

On that happy note, let's assume you're confident and ready for more.

This one still uses the original pattern but the fingering is quite different. If you watch closely, you'll get the order notes. The idea is to break up the symmetrical aspect of the first pattern and incorporate some more interesting string crossing. As usual, start slowly and gradually pick up speed over time.

Finally, here's a couple words of wisdom - be patient!

Jeez I hate having to say that but it's true - most times the full benefits of an exercise aren't realized right away. Play long enough and you'll find this to be true. It's a continuous journey learning new things and improving your abilities as a guitar player. Hopefully you can have fun doing it and enjoy the ride!