Just learning the bass guitar? These beginner bass lessons will get you started.
The very first of the beginner bass lessons shows you how to position your hands.
A question I am always asked by beginner bass guitar players? Where do I put my thumb?
There are two different positions to consider.
First, while playing the E string, or (4th string) obviously your thumb can not be resting on it or that string will not vibrate and you won't get any sound.
So? Rest your thumb anywhere else that feels comfortable, like on the pick-up, or on the pick guard.
If you are a beginner the best right hand playing technique is to pluck the strings with your index, and middle finger.
There
are of course other ways to play the bass, like using other fingers, or
using a guitar pick, however, using your first two fingers is the most
"pure" method and one that you should stick to when learning.
You
may notice when I am playing the E string I rest my thumb on the
pick-up, this is not a "required technique" it is just something I do
when I am playing that particular bass (Fender Jazz) it is neither
right nor wrong. 
When playing the other strings it is proper to rest your thumb directly on the E string. This helps in dampening so when playing the G, D, or A, the E string will not ring from the vibration of the bass.
Now for the left hand, (or right hand if you are left handed).
As in the photo below your thumb and middle finger should be exactly opposite each other.
One of the best things my first bass teacher taught me and really helped me progress was that you should use one finger per fret, but I'll speak more about that in the next of the beginner bass lessons.
More lessons
Beginner Bass Lessons - Playing a simple 12 bar blues
Constructing a walking bass lineAn extensive lesson on reading music
