I don't know if I'm posting this question in the right place because I'm new to forums.
The question deals with the Dmin chord at the moment, but it could apply to chords I might play in the future.
I've been working at this for quite some time, and the only way I can play the Dmin chord with no muted strings is by pressing on the high E string with the fingernail of my index finger. I'm pretty sure that this is not the correct technique.
I've also noticed that many of those who play guitar seem to have an entirely different fingernail structure than I do. Their fingernails seem to end about halfway down the finger, leaving a nice "fingerpad" from which it appears to be simpler to play difficult chords. My fingernails (even when trimmed to the point of pain) leave no such pad. When sufficient pressure is applied to the strings, this area will give way immediately, allowing for the fingernails to bear the pressure.
I can't imagine that this would be good technique. I don't know how to fix this. Should I just acknowledge that I don't have the genetic makeup necessary to play guitar and give up. It's all very distressing to me, because I really would like to learn how to play.
Please provide some solution, if possible.
Thank you for reading my question.