Start seated
Sit upright with both feet supported. Rest the body of the guitar on your thigh and angle the neck slightly upward. Keep your shoulders down; your fretting hand should move freely rather than hold the instrument against you.
Hands and standing up
Rest your fretting thumb lightly behind the neck and curve your fingers onto their tips. Your other forearm rests gently on the guitar body. When standing, adjust the strap until your hands can keep a similarly comfortable position.
Should the neck point upward?
A slightly raised neck can make chords easier. Choose an angle that lets your wrists stay comfortable rather than sharply bent.