As a method developed for Classical guitar, the Suzuki Guitar Method uses the traditional Spanish names, and corresponding lowercase initials, for each playing finger of the right hand: "p" for pulgar (thumb), "i" for indicio (index finger), "m" for medio (middle finger) and "a" for anular (ring finger). Classically-trained guitarists do not use the little finger of the right hand. Finger combinations are denoted by combinations of initials, such as "i-m" or "m-a."
When striking the strings to play a melody, players alternate between the fingers of the right hand. Alternating saves energy, minimizes potential muscle tension and increases the upper threshold for playing speed. The first Suzuki exercise for alternating fingers uses the "i-m" combination, in which the guitarist alternates between playing with the index and middle fingers of the right hand.
The Suzuki Method also uses finger combination exercises for changing between two strings and for playing complete arpeggios. Volume One of the Suzuki Method includes basic string-changing exercises with all possible finger combinations and orders: i-m, i-a, m-i, m-a, a-i, a-m. It also includes finger combinations for playing arpeggios that incorporate the thumb such as "p-m-i-a."