Learning scales using three notes per string

Most beginners when learning a major scale tend to learn it in a straight vertical-type position.  For example in a G major scale the student will learn it starting on the 3rd fret on the 6th string and end on the 3rd fret on the 1st string.  This positioning can prove to be awkward in playing situations as it becomes difficult to mix it up make it more musical.

A good exercise to work on to help that potential problem is by playing scales using three notes per string.  So if you start a G major scale on the 3rd fret, you would play G-A-B on the low 6th string, then play C-D-E on the 5th string, F#-G-A on the 4th string, B-C-D on the 3rd, E-F#-G on the 2nd, and A-B-C on the 1st string. This gives you a two and a half octave scale and takes you from the 3rd fret, up to the 8th fret without making things too difficult or complicated.  Another benefit of this exercise is that you will naturally build the flexibility of your left hand which will make learning new chords much easier.

Have fun, enjoy!