Hello all,

In guitar scale patterns, it's common for the patterns to extend beyond the root note. This is done to provide a full and comprehensive visualization of the scale across the fretboard, allowing you to play the scale in different positions and octaves.

When you see a scale pattern starting a few notes before the root note, it means that you can begin playing the scale from that position and continue up or down the pattern to cover the entire scale. The root note is usually marked or highlighted within the pattern, so you can easily identify it.

For example, in the C major scale pattern 4 you mentioned, starting on E and ending on G, it allows you to play the C major scale starting from that position. By starting on E, you are playing the notes E, F, G, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, which are part of the C major scale. The pattern extends beyond the root note of C to provide a larger context for playing the scale.

It's important to understand that while the pattern may start on a different note, the sequence of notes within the pattern remains consistent with the corresponding scale. So, even though you start on E, you are still playing the notes of the C major scale.

By learning and practicing different scale patterns, you'll gain flexibility and the ability to play scales in various positions on the guitar neck. This helps with improvisation, soloing, and navigating the fretboard more effectively.

I hope this clarifies the concept for you. Keep practicing and exploring the scale patterns.