Alternate picking is a technique of striking the strings with downstrokes and upstrokes in turn. It is the foundation for playing fast phrases efficiently and evenly.
The basic idea
When the down and up motions are equal, the notes come out even. Practice from a slow tempo so that one direction does not become too strong.
How to use it when playing and programming
Play steady eighth or sixteenth notes along with a metronome. When programming, varying the velocity slightly to imitate picking dynamics sounds more natural.
How it differs from related terms
Alternate picking uses downstrokes and upstrokes in turn. Down picking plays everything with downstrokes.
Put accurate placement against the beat ahead of sheer speed.
