Picking Question, Alternate picking Options

[Toroso]

OK, let's say I'm practicing a three note repeating pattern on the hi E string using alternate picking. Starting off, the first note is a down stroke. Next time thru the first would be an upstroke if I follow convention. So, For a repeating pattern like that, should I follow strict alternate or should I always start the first note with a downstroke?

[Muris Varajic]

If you play longer alt. picking stuff using 3nps then
every 2nd group of notes will start with an upstroke,
cause you're playing odd grouping,3 notes.
Play 4 notes in group per example and every group will
start with downstroke, pure math.

But if you make gaps/breaks between every 3nps pattern
then you can start each of them with downstroke,
it depends of situation.

[Ramiro Delforte]

I think the answer depends on the situation. Sometimes to make an accent on the first note you could use that upstroke. But sometimes it's ok to play the up-down pattern.
An example of the first thing could be: A-B-C/ B-C-D/C-D-E/ so every time you start the pattern you use a downstroke.

[Toroso]

I guess that was a whacko question. I'm just trying to gain some speed but still paranoid about ingraining bad habits.

[Muris Varajic]

I guess that was a whacko question. I'm just trying to gain some speed but still paranoid about ingraining bad habits.

It's not bad as long as it works for you.

[Vaialation1232]

If your trying for speed, i think that the fastest way to do it is with all alternate picking since you are staying on the same string

[Pedja Simovic]

It is very good example you choose indeed

I would start that with UP stroke , or do combination of Economy picking there starting with a down stroke (Frank Gambale style).
Also like Muris mentioned , ideally you want to have Even number of notes per string in order for Alternate picking to fall into place and be easier.

Overall that example is great for practicing and experimenting and I look forward hearing from you which method works best for you !

[IDontWantMyUsern...]

Try to think of it like a 6 note pattern instead of a 3 note pattern, then it will feel like if you are always starting with a downstroke. It might not be smart to make it a habit though as it could get even more confusing in some situations.

I'm not great at explaining this stuff, but I hope you understood what I meant