Two Ways to Learn Modes When it comes to understanding modes, there are two main approaches every guitarist should know: 1️⃣ Derivative Approach – Learn each mode as derived from its parent major scale. For example, all 7 modes of C Major (C Ionian, D Dorian, E Phrygian, etc.) share the same notes, but each starts from a different degree. This helps you understand how modes connect across the fretboard. 2️⃣ Parallel Approach – Learn each mode starting from the same root note. For example: C Ioni