In the following two octave A melodic minor scale, the first finger must shift to the second position (F#) in order to comfortably accommodate the upper notes when ascending, and return to first position (F@) when descending. A new note is introduced by nature of this shift, this being A, fifth fret, first string ( ! ). Remember to move the thumb with the first finger as described on page 18.
Make sure to leave the first finger on the ! F#, and the third finger on the ! G# until the ® A is used when fingering the ascending scale. Once the A has been played and lifted, without leaving the string slide the first and third fingers lightly down one fret to the first position, and complete the scale on ! G@ and F@. This method of moving a finger or fingers by lightly sliding up or down the string from one fret to another is called a guide finger. Guide fingers are sometimes indicated by a line (—) between the two notes.
The following keys of D major and B minor are primarily in the second position, and are therefore excellent for demonstrating its use.