I think it depends on the person...I had tried for years with online lessons and being self taught, and in never worked out. But then again, neither did the teacher I'd pursued. All great players, but had difficulty providing the structure I felt I needed. I eventually read an article on how to select a good teacher and after going through a couple more guys, finally locked on down. It's been great, and now I'm going to split my time between this teacher and intensive online lessons. I think a teacher in person is the best, and most effective way to learn guitar, but you have to find the right one, one who provide long term structure for the student, as well as show the student how to effectively practice and learn on their own.