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A capo is a simple tool, resembling a clamp, used to shorten the strings of an instrument. On a guitar, the capo is placed along the fretboard. The higher the capo is clamped on, the higher the pitch of the strings. Capos are a great fretboard mobility tool.

How a guitar capo works
Try playing a simple guitar chord, such as C. Now put your capo between the first and second frets, with the capo right next to the second fret. Now play the C chord again. Does it sound different? If your guitar was in standard tuning, then your chord has now moved up to C#. If you move the capo up even farther, before the third fret, then you will be playing in the key of D. Experiment with different positions. If you are singing along, you may find that a certain position is better suited for your vocal range.

How to make your own capo!
You do not need to spend $15 on a real guitar capo. Making your own is very easy. All you need is a rubber band and a stick with a flat surface. A pencil works great. Just make sure that your stick wont break when you tie it down! Lay your flat-surfaced stick across the strings at the desired fret. Hold the stick in place by wrapping the rubber band around both ends underneath the fretboard. Good luck!