if refers to the fretthat you need to press the string on looking down on the fretboard from above a G chord would be (and there are variations to this as well) thickest (bottom) string which is an E ~ 3rd fret then then next one down (D) 2nd fret next one down (A) open (e.g. don't touch any of the strings) next one down (B) open next one down (G) 3rd fret top string (thinnest) E 3rd fret
Glad it helped sunflower - my husband reckoned it was quite an unfriendly way to learn and suggests you buy a Tab book available at any guitar type shop it has diagrams showing the frets and strings that need to be used. You and your son may find this more user friendly.
Thanks Hellion I have to say I agree. He has a special book for the guy to put notes in to take home and this was all he put, apart from 'elephants and dogs go bed (sic) early' which your hubby probably gets.(chord-order??)
For us novices and a young boy who (luckily) took in most of what he said, it is not clear. I did put a note in the book today saying please elaborate!