Homework: Take your time and work through each of the strum patterns on the attached sheet. At first, counting can actually slow your progress. Instead, try saying the pattern out loud (for example, "down, down, up, up, down, up") while keeping your strumming arm moving in a steady, continuous motion the entire time.

Be patient with yourself—strumming is one of those skills that's harder to master than most people expect. Stick with it, and it will eventually become second nature.