Let's take a look at the pros and cons of the different guitar learning methods available:

1.Private Guitar Instruction

Up until about 10 years ago private guitar lessons were the only way to go. Let's take a look at the outline. Your first lesson will start with the instructors' curriculum and your goals as a guitarist. He/She will take you through basic music theory, chord theory and you will move on into playing scales and barre chords and if you're lucky you may even have an instructor that will teach you your favorite songs from time to time. This method is probably the best for one on one individual instruction. The instructor will guide you through exactly where to place your hands, timing and strumming progressions. However, private guitar lessons can be very expensive and time consuming. You will be practicing the same thing over and over again for at least 15 min/day until the instructor feels you're ready to move on which can cost you upwards of $40/hour. Plus, you will have to fit these lessons into your tight schedule. All in all it might be a good place to start to see if you're disciplined enough to learn guitar.

2. Class Room Instruction

This is a great place to start to learn the basics. Usually these types of lessons are for a set period of time once a week for about a month and a half. You will only learn the basics unless you move on to the intermediate classes. With this instruction the teacher will generally be teaching you chords and rhythm only. The classes just aren't long enough to teach much more unless you move on to other classes. This can be a very cost effective way to see if learning the guitar is something you want to continue to pursue. However, you could get bored or fall behind since there will be minimum one on one help. I'd check them out for the true beginner though.

3. Online Guitar Instruction

This is the new kid on the block. Like with any new technique these lessons are constantly evolving. The HD quality video in the high quality lessons is exceptional and you can't beat the cost at a minimum of $12.95/mo. One of the advantages is the array of instructors available. You may be looking to play one type of music? Well, this is great since you will be able to pick the exact instructor who is an expert on the genre you're interested in. With many tools such as tuners, jam tracks, metronomes (timing) and song teaching software, this is most definitely your best option in my opinion for the cost and quality instruction.All in all good luck to you and if you truly learn the guitar? You will have years and years of enjoyment.