The Scientist
byColdplay
Required String Notes:EADGBC
Tune to Custom Tuning (EADGBC)Tune to Custom Tuning (EADGBC)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (EADGBC).
Custom Tuning (EADGBC)
±0
E
Target: 82.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
E82
A110
D147
G196
B247
C262
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (EADGBC)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 1 of 6 strings to play “The Scientist”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | E2 | Leave as is |
| String 5 | A2 | A2 | Leave as is |
| String 4 | D3 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | B3 | Leave as is |
| String 1 | E4 | C4 | Tune down 4 semitones |
Recommended string gauge: .010–.046. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.Ernie Ball Regular Slinky (.010–.046) · affiliate link
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"The Scientist" by Coldplay is played in Custom Tuning (EADGBC) (EADGBC). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 1 of 6 strings: string 1 down to C. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 4 semitones down. Coldplay uses this same tuning on 1 other song in our catalog, so you can stay tuned and keep playing.
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Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (EADGBC)
Already tuned to EADGBC? These tunings are just one small change away.
Standard E241 songs
E - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 1 differs: E instead of C.Custom Tuning (EADGBD)11 songs
EADGBDOnly string 1 differs: D instead of C.Custom Tuning (EADGBD#)2 songs
EADGBD#Only string 1 differs: D# instead of C.Custom Tuning (EADGBB)1 song
EADGBBOnly string 1 differs: B instead of C.Coldplay’s Guitar Tunings
Coldplay plays 2 of 14 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (EADGBC). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (EADGBC)EADGBC2 songs
Gear for Custom Tuning (EADGBC)
Strings and tools that make playing "The Scientist" in Custom Tuning (EADGBC) easier.
Ernie Ball Regular Slinky (.010–.046)
Recommended gauge .010–.046. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
D'Addario Universal Micro Headstock Tuner
A headstock tuner makes switching in and out of this tuning quick, even on stage or without a mic.
D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)
Retuning 1 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“The Scientist” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "The Scientist" by Coldplay in?
"The Scientist" is played in Custom Tuning (EADGBC): EADGBC, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "The Scientist"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 1: tune down 4 semitones (E4 → C4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (EADGBC)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
Which other Coldplay songs use this tuning?
"A Rush of Blood to the Head" — all in EADGBC, so you can play them without retuning.
More Songs by Coldplay
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Coldplay:
C# Standard TuningIntermediate
C# - F# - B - E - G# - C#No Capo
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (EADGBC)
Once tuned to EADGBC, try playing these tracks next: