Some people set their clocks ten minutes fast so they won't be late for things. Others prefer knowing the correct time and are willing to set out ten minutes earlier in order to be punctual. I guess I'm in the second category.

I prefer seeing a chart written in the intended key with proper key signature and chord names chosen to match the actual key. Then I can choose to play the suggested chords anywhere on the neck, substitute my own chords, or use a capo and appropriate fingerings. I prefer to think of a G pattern capoed at the second fret simply as an A chord. I never think of it as a G. If the piece is a song I plan to sing, I'll probably wind up changing the key to fit my voice anyway. As I play, I probably think of chords in the relative nomenclature (I, II, IV, V, etc.) more often than in absolute names (G, A, C, D, etc.).

I think one should know the names of the notes on the fingerboard and learn the spelling of chords independent of any instrument. That knowledge will free the player from having to remember capo positions.

      - Mark