A fretboard, also known as a fingerboard, is the part of a stringed instrument, like a guitar or bass, where the player presses down the strings to create different notes. It is typically made of wood and features metal strips called frets, which divide the fretboard into sections. Each fret represents a half-step in pitch, allowing musicians to play a variety of notes by pressing the strings against the frets. The design and material of a fretboard can significantly affect the instrument's sound and playability. Common woods used for fretboards include maple and rosewood, each offering unique tonal qualities. The fretboard's radius, or curvature, can also influence how comfortable it is for players to perform techniques like bending strings or playing chords.