Why are strings tuned like that?

[Brimstone]

If every string is tuned to the 3rd higher note than the string right above it, why is the 2nd string tuned to just 2 noted above the 3rd string?

[FatWallet77]

because, instead of tuning each string in perfect 4ths, the guitar is tuned differently to enable more harmonic and playing posibilities.

[Theresa]

The modern day guitar has gone through a multitude of tuning sequences over the last 400 years. The current system affords a more comfortable fingering of chords, intervals and harmonies.

Although the standard 4th's tuning method is recognized as the "norm" there are many different modes of tuning still in use today.

Take an example of pieces requiring the dropping of the 6th string E to D.

Or pieces calling for dropping the 6th and 5th strings to C and F#.

The method by which a guitar is tuned is merely a matter of facility and the convienence by which a guitarst can play the music.

Hope this clarifies.
:)