Paradiddle

The paradiddle is a fundamental drum rudiment. Master all four variations — single, double, triple, and paradiddle-diddle. R = right hand, L = left hand.

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Practice Tips
Start SlowBegin at 40–60 BPM. Muscle memory beats speed every time.
Accent the First BeatThe accented first note defines the paradiddle's character and sound.
Even StrokesAll non-accented notes should be equal in volume. Listen for consistency.
Alternate StartsPractice starting with both R and L to develop independence.
MetronomeUse the BPM slider. Increase by 5 BPM only when both hands feel comfortable.
Apply to KitPlay snare strokes on snare, try moving accents to toms for fills.
About this tool

Paradiddle

Paradiddle is a drum rudiment trainer showing R and L sticking notation for paradiddle patterns, with adjustable tempo.

How to use it

  1. Select a paradiddle variation.
  2. Read the sticking notation.
  3. Play along at the tempo shown, starting slow.

What a paradiddle is and why it exists

The single paradiddle is RLRR LRLL. Two alternating strokes then a double, and the pattern reverses on the second half so the lead hand swaps every bar. That swap is the entire point: it lets you keep alternating while shifting which hand lands on the strong beat.

The double paradiddle extends it to RLRLRR LRLRLL and fits naturally in six, making it useful in 6/8 and triplet feels. The triple continues the pattern. All of them are about hand independence and moving accents around the kit without stopping.

When it helps

  • Building hand independence and control.
  • Warming up before playing.
  • Learning to move a pattern around the kit while the sticking stays fixed.
  • Developing the double stroke, which is the hardest part for most beginners.

Common mistakes

  • Practising fast before the doubles are even. The second stroke of each double is where sloppiness hides.
  • Only leading with the right. The pattern should be practised starting with either hand.
  • Skipping the metronome. Rudiments practised out of time build the wrong reflex.
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Paradiddle interface preview
Screenshot of the live Paradiddle interface.
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