How to read bass tab symbols

Other Bass Tab Markings

1. A forward slash ( / ) indicates a slide moving up in pitch.
2. A back slash ( \ ) indicates a slide moving down in pitch.
3. A caret (^) indicates a bend.
4. An X (x) indicates a ghost note.
5. An H (h) indicates a hammer-on.
6. A P (p) indicates a pull-off.

1. What do X's mean on a bass tab?

What do X's mean on a bass tab?

Muted Notes

An "X" can indicate two different things. When seen by itself, it means you should mute the string and pluck it, producing a muffled, percussive note. When seen above or below fret numbers, it means you should simply mute the string to stop it ringing.