Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
We Can Work It Out The Beatles

 About the Original

The Beatles' "We Can Work It Out" features a blend of folk-pop and classic rock, with a rhythmic, upbeat feel. The original uses acoustic guitar and keyboard, with a driving, steady tempo. Understanding the song’s optimistic mood helps maintain energy while playing.

Chords and Progression

This song uses basic open chords: G, F, C, D, Em, and B7. Beginners may find F and B7 slightly challenging—practice finger placement for smoother transitions. The verses mainly use G and F, with C and D for the chorus, and Em, C, and B7 for the bridge.

Strumming Pattern

Start with a relaxed, steady strumming pattern: Down, down-up, up-down-up Keep the rhythm even, matching the song’s bouncy feel. For the bridge, strum a little softer to highlight the change in mood.

Chord Transitions

When moving from G to F, anchor your index finger for efficiency. Practice shifting between F and G repeatedly. The jump from C to D at the end of the chorus is quick—try practicing those two chords in sequence.

Other Tips

If F is too difficult, use an F major 7 (xx3210) as a substitute. Slow down tricky passages and increase speed as you get comfortable. Listen to the original for timing, especially for the pauses after “we can work it out.”

EADGBE G
EADGBE F
EADGBE C
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE Em
EADGBEX B7
Verse 1
G Try to see it my way, do I have toF keep on talking till I can't goG on?
Why do you see it your way, run the risk ofF knowing that our love may soon beG gone?
C We can work itG out,C we can work itD out
Verse 2
G Think of what you're saying, you can get itF wrong and still you think that it's allG right
Think of what I'm saying, we can work itF out and get it straight or say goodG night
C We can work itG out,C we can work itD out
Bridge
Em Life is very short, and there's noC time for fussing andB7 fighting myEm friend
I have always thought, that it's aC crime, so I willB7 ask you once aEm gain
Verse 3
G Try to see it my way, only time willF tell if I am right or I amG wrong
While you see it your way, there's a chance thatF we might fall apart before tooG long
C We can work itG out,C we can work itD out
Outro
G C G