How to use AutoTab, the random tab generator

AutoTab is a free tool offered by AutoChords to generate random guitar tabs. Based on scales and chord positions, it allows you to instantly create musical phrases as ASCII tabs, ready to be played, copied or downloaded.

Generate a tab in a few clicks

Choose your key, the scale type (minor or major pentatonic, major, natural minor), the number of bars and the playing style, then click Generate. AutoTab automatically builds a tab adapted to your settings, displayed in ASCII format on 6 standard guitar strings.

Available playing styles

Random

Random mode generates notes chosen at random from the boxes of the selected scale. Ideal for exploring new melodic ideas and breaking out of your musical habits.

Melodic

Melodic mode builds more coherent phrases by following a progressive melodic contour within the scale. Notes flow more naturally, making it perfect for practicing improvisation.

Arpeggio

Arpeggio mode generates tabs based on real chord positions. You can configure the allowed chord qualities (triads, sevenths, extensions, alterations, etc.) as well as other options such as inversions, pure triads and starting from the lowest string.

Advanced settings

Access the settings via the gear icon to fine-tune your tabs. In arpeggio mode, precisely select the desired chord qualities by category: triads (maj, m, dim, aug), sevenths (7, maj7, m7, mmaj7...), extensions (9, 11, 13, 6...), add chords, sus, and alterations (7b9, 7#11...). Enable or disable inversions and pure triads, and allow or disallow the use of frets beyond the 12th fret.

Copy and download

Once your tab is generated, use the Copy button to paste it directly into a text editor or notation software. You can also download it as a .txt file with a fixed 80-character-per-line layout, perfect for printing or sharing.

Why use AutoTab?

  • Instant tab generation based on real scales and chord positions
  • Three playing styles: random, melodic and arpeggio
  • Fine-tuned chord quality settings in arpeggio mode with over 80 chord types available
  • Responsive display that adapts to your screen size
  • Export as a .txt file with an optimized 80-character layout
  • 100% free tool, no registration required