Modes

Modes are a major source of confusion in guitar theory, especially online. I have tried my best to make modes as understandable as possible.

Modes are a group of scales, based on the major scales. There are a total number of seven modes. Their names are as follows:

1. Ionian
2. Dorian
3. Phrygian
4. Lydian
5. Mixolydian
6. Aeolian
7. Locrian

It is essential that you memorize these names in sequence. And remember, These seven modes are seven scales. A mode is just a scale, so don't let the word confuse you.

The Ionian Mode

Let's first look at the major scale (Say, C Major):

C D E F G A B

'Co' is the first note, and therefore the root note. We know that already. This was the C major scale. The Ionian mode is just the major scale. Therefore, 'ionian mode' and 'major scale' both refer to the same scale. This scale was the C major scale OR C ionian mode.

The Dorian Mode

Now, suppose we start the major scale from the second note. This is what the C major will look like: D E F G A B C D

This is the Dorian mode. The notes, as you can see, are the same as they were in the ionian mode. The only thing that has changed is that the root note is D instead of C. Therefore it would not be right to call this new scale C major, as C is not the root note. This scale is D dorian.

You will probably ask "How is D Dorian any different from C Major?". We will get to this part later.