How to Pick Fast..

To become a fast picker on the guitar, it requires dedication and practice. One of the essential techniques is alternate picking, which involves using both the downstroke and upstroke to pick the strings. By practicing this technique, guitar players can improve their speed and precision over time. Using alternate picking together with scale patterns that are 3-note-per-string in sequence can lend itself to rapid-fire, fast picking, AKA "shredding."

In alternate picking, the simplest form of the downstroke/upstroke picking sequence on each string is as follows:

1st note = Downstroke, 2nd note = Upstroke, 3rd note = Downstroke

We apply the Down, Up, Down stroke sequence on each string before moving on to another (or adjacent) string.  And because there's an odd number of notes (3) we pick on each string, the Down, Up, Down sequence remains consistent throughout on all strings, and thus muscle memory develops extremely quickly.  

Economy picking is another effective technique that combines alternate picking with sweeping motion, allowing for seamless and efficient string transitions.

The art of fast picking involves incorporating all these techniques into intricate and rapid patterns, creating a dazzling display of speed and accuracy.  By consistently practicing these techniques and gradually increasing the tempo, guitar players can develop the ability to pick fast and achieve impressive fast-picking skills.