Fret markers are the small dots (or shapes) you see on the front of the fretboard and often on the side of the neck. They are visual landmarks — like street signs — that help you quickly find common fret positions.

Most guitars mark these frets:

• 3rd fret
• 5th fret
• 7th fret
• 9th fret
• 12th fret (usually a double dot)

Many guitars also mark: 15th, 17th, 19th, 21st and 24th frets (if the guitar has them), following the same pattern beyond the 12th fret.

The 12th fret is special because notes repeat every 12 frets. The 12th fret is the same note as the open string, one octave higher.

That’s why many guitars use a double dot at the 12th fret — it’s a major reference point.

Related page: Guitar Fretboard Explained  |  Octaves on the Guitar

Instead of counting 1–2–3–4–5 every time, you can jump to landmarks:

• 5th fret is a common “home base” position
• 7th fret is another frequent reference point
• 12th fret is the octave “reset” point

This instantly improves your confidence moving around the neck.

A simple method:

1. Pick a string (start with low E or A).
2. Learn the note at the 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, 12th frets.
3. Quiz yourself randomly using the dots as “targets”.

Reference chart: Guitar Fretboard Notes Chart

Many chord shapes and riffs sit near marker frets. If you remember where the dots are, you’ll locate common shapes faster and reduce hand “searching”.

Helpful hub: Guitar Chords Hub

1. Go to the 5th fret marker and name the note on the low E string.
2. Go to the 7th fret marker and name the note on the A string.
3. Go to the 12th fret marker and name the note on any string.
4. Repeat for 2–3 different note letters.

Pair this with: How to Memorise the Guitar Fretboard