How do I avoid guitar strings from breaking?

While it's not possible to completely prevent guitar strings from breaking, you can take steps to reduce the likelihood. Here are some tips:

Nut condition

Make sure the nut slots are smooth and the right size for the strings you're using. You can use nut lubricant to prevent binding.

String cleanliness

Clean your strings after each use with a polish cloth or string cleaner.

Picks

Avoid heavy picks, especially if they're worn down and sharp, as they can damage your strings. You can also try playing with your fingers instead of a pick.

Strings

Use good-quality strings that aren't too old. The average set of strings can last about 90 days.

Setup

Make sure your guitar is set up and strung well. You can take your guitar to a luthier for a routine setup if you're experiencing frequent string breakage.

Tuning

If you don't have locking tuners, make sure you wrap the string enough to bring it below the eyelet of the tuner. This prevents the vibrating part of the string from touching a sharp part of the eyelet. You can also check for burrs or other issues on the tuning post or string tree, and file them down if necessary.