The first position allocates the first finger (i) of the picking hand to the second string and the second finger (m) of the picking hand to the first string. The thumb (p) will play all the bass strings.
The adjacent photo highlights the first position of the right hand fingers (i) and (m). These two fingers should be in position above the strings ready to pick.
The first example in this section is a simple right hand picking exercise. All notes on the second string are played with the first finger (i), the first string is played with the second finger (m). Remember to brace the right hand thumb (p) on the fourth string. This will keep the right hand steady and make it easier to get a consistent, even sound to all the notes.
Note: The notation in this section is arranged with the tablature above the standard music notation. For most fingerpicking studies you will find the tablature easier to read.
The next example is typical of the type hand finger movement that will feature in the early stages of this book. Try for an even, balanced movement between the two right hand fingers.