Syncopated Strumming Patterns with Eighth Rests 

Syncopation can also be created with rests, most notably eighth rests, that force the accent on to an upbeat. In the pattern below, we can see how all of the downbeats are eighth rests, and all of the upbeats are eighth notes, creating a pattern consisting entirely of upstrokes. 

Practice the following syncopated strumming patterns using eighth rests. Make sure you carefully analyze the patterns below to make sure you are placing downstrokes and upstrokes in the correct locations. Remember that rests require the player to completely mute the strings of the guitar so there is no sound.