Never picked up a guitar but want to learn

Hello Possum
in my opinnion, and by experience the best is to start  with a good teacher to avoid getting bad habits , and also you'll progress faster,
If there's no money for the guitar teacher go to you tube and there's a lot of good teachers  there , Personally I like
JustinSandercoe
Really really great guy and he teaches really good,,from begginers to advance players You'll see it

I hope it helps,
Welcome to the site and to the wonderful world of Music:-)

It can't hurt to just pick up a beginners book from your local library / book store, if nothing else than to learn a few chords and techniques.

Possum, you did not mention your age. BUT, it don't matter. All you need to start is a desire. I started playing at the tender age of 54 and if I can do it so can you. Take things slow, learn the basics, (open chords are a good place to start) find you a decent guitar to begin practice - doesn't need to be an expensive guitar, find you some beginner books and CD's and just get started. Always remember - even a baby has to learn to crawl before they can walk. You will not start making music overnight. You will get frustrated, you fingers will get sore, you will start finding excuses not to practice, etc, etc, etc. Stick with it, set you some goals ( and a good teacher or this site will help) and get started! "Nuff said.

Nela