Build an even down-up motion while hearing each mandolin course clearly.
Today's tempo ladder
Slow50BPMWorking60BPMGoal80BPM
Loop this measure
Four-course quarter-note loop
One relaxed stroke per click. Reverse the pick direction each time the loop repeats.
Target80 BPM
1 measure · repeats
Explanation
What this develops
A reliable picking hand begins with a small, relaxed motion. This exercise crosses the four open courses from G to E, giving the fretting hand a rest while you listen for an even tone.
Keep the pick only deep enough to release the strings. If one course sounds louder, reduce the movement instead of gripping harder.
Coach's tip
The pick should feel as if it falls through the string, not as if it pushes the string out of the way.
Practice plan
Take it to the instrument
1
Mute the strings and rehearse four silent down-up pairs.
2
Play the loop at 60 BPM and say the course names: G, D, A, E.
3
Raise the tempo by 4 BPM only after three clean loops.
Finish this lesson
Mark it complete when you can play three relaxed, clean loops.