When you’re learning to play a piece of music by ear – such as a new hit song by your favorite recording artist – there are a couple of things to focus on to make learning easier.

First, listen for the song structure. Determine in what order each different section of the song is placed. This is referred to as the “arrangement.” Musicians typically give these sections names such as intro, “A” section, “B” section, “C” section, chorus, bridge, instrumental break, or outro. Does the intro repeat at the outro?

Is there a bridge or “middle eight,” or just a verse and chorus? Is the solo over a verse part or a chorus part? Are there two different verse sections and a chorus section? Write the arrangement down if it makes it easier to learn (drummers use arrangement notes all the time). New and difficult songs are usually less intimidating when you see that most parts of the song are repeated numerous times.

Second, listen to and even learn the bass line, especially if you’re having trouble figuring out the chords. The bass line will usually indicate which chords the guitarist is playing. Bassists typically focus on the “root” note of each chord, and may also hang on the third and fifth of the chord as well. (For more on scale and chord tones, see tip #2 and tip #13.)

For example, if the bassist is playing an A note for four measures, or even if he or she is riffing, but keeps hitting an A note, especially on the first beat of each measure, chances are the guitarist is playing an A chord.

That A note, however, could also serve as the major third of an F chord, the minor third of an F# chord, or the fifth of a D chord. You might need to experiment with different voicings and extensions of chords before you find the right one, but the bass line will be an invaluable tool in narrowing down your choices.

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This quick lesson is an excerpt from my book “101 Guitar Tips: Stuff All The Pros Know And Use,” which I wrote for publisher Hal Leonard a few years back. The 88-page book itself contains tips on playing, music theory, gear, band advice, and the wisdom of many of the great stars I’ve interviewed over the years. It also comes with an hour-long CD of lesson materials and jam tracks… If you’d like to have your own copy, go here: 101 Guitar Tips.