Originally Posted by: jimidalliance
Does anyone have any advice on when first learning scales, are you better to memorise the intervals in each pattern ( eg 1st 2nd 3rd 5th 6th) or the notes of the pattern (eg A B C# E F#)?

Start with intervals, then learn the notes. You can combine learning them to a certain degree. But, they are separate skills, so at first just focus on the intervals.

I encourage students to start with the intervals because doing so will better help you integrate the physical motions and fretboard patterns with the actual sound you are making.

Over the course of time gradually map the notes on the fretboard as you go along. It is a separate skill so focus on it separately. The longer you work on both the intervals and the notes, the more they will become automated in your subconscious and second nature to you.

If you are going all the way back to basics, I encourage you to have a look at the GF2 course chapters on intervals, scales, chords and how they all relate:

http://www.guitartricks.com/course.php?input=2

After that, go to chapter 7 in which I show lots of useful ways to practice scales in order to help improve your physical & hearing skills.

http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=451

After that, I have lots of other tutorials that can help you visualize the fretboard, play it competently, hear what you are doing and really understand it:

http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=453
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=887

http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=898
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=899

http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=928
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=929

Hope this helps. Have fun!