3NPS Patterns by Comparison: Phrygian Vs Minor (Flat Style)

Do you feel like there's no end to the number of guitar scale patterns and every other one you find seems to be different and unrelated, even though they have similar titles?

In this reference chart we're focusing on the concept of learning something new by comparing it with a similar alternative you already know. In our case, we are comparing Phrygian with the Natural minor scale, side-by-side, note-by-note, highlighting the changes. You'll see how a "new" pattern is derived from an existing pattern, and from that point onwards you'll not think of the new pattern as "unrelated" anymore.

The biggest advantage of this approach is that you don't have to memorize a whole new scale pattern. Instead, you only need to learn the changes. Plus, we're using a 3NPS system which is consistent and predictable by design. What that means for you is that even with these changes all patterns still remain strictly 3-notes-per-string.

Our ultimate goal is for you to think in terms of "this new scale is like this other one I know except for one small change". Once you make this connection, you'll have nailed the concept!

Chart features

Minimalistic. This reference has a minimalistic design with no extra guidance and with scale notes shown as empty shapes providing a clean, uncluttered look. It's perfect for seasoned guitar players or simply those who want extra focus.

Side-by-side. 2 patterns that are being compared are placed visually side-by-side, so you can easily hop back and forth between the two to see the changes.

Relevant highlighting only. To help you stay focused on the relevant changes, I've deliberately avoided highlighting anything that could be distracting, such as the roots. The roots are still indicated by square shapes, but they are not color-coded differently to avoid drawing too much attention to them.

7 patterns. The changes are shown for each of the available seven 3NPS patterns, so you had the complete set to analyze and experiment with.

Movable patterns. You can shift any pattern so that its root note aligns with the root note of your choice.

Characteristic note. In this chart we compare Phrygian with the Minor scale. The interesting fact about this is that the resulting difference not only shows you the change you need to make to get the Phrygian scale, but also these same changed tones happen to be the characteristic tones of Phrygian. So you learn 2 things at once: a new scale pattern and its characteristic tone.