An electric guitar typically has six strings, which are arranged in pairs of two, with each pair tuned to the same pitch. The strings are usually made of steel or nickel-plated steel and are played by plucking or strumming them with a pick or the fingers. While six strings is the most common configuration for electric guitars, there are also models with seven, eight, or even more strings. These extended-range guitars are typically used in genres like metal and jazz, where players need the extra range to play complex chords and solos. The number of strings on an electric guitar can have a significant impact on the sound and playability of the instrument. While six-string guitars are the most versatile and widely-used, players looking for a more specialized sound may opt for a guitar with more strings or a different tuning. Ultimately, the choice of how many strings to use is up to the player's personal preference and playing style.