How to Learn Fingerstyle Guitar
Fingerstyle replaces the pick with four or five independent fingers of the picking hand - it's not 'harder', just a different way of dividing the work, with its own clear system rather than fingers grabbing at strings however they land.
Which finger covers which string
The standard split: the thumb plays the bass strings (usually the three lowest-sounding), while the index, middle, and ring fingers each cover one of the top three strings. It's not the only possible layout, but it's the right one to start with - a fixed zone of responsibility per finger removes the 'which finger plays this' question on every note.
The first pattern: one finger per hit
The simplest drill: the thumb plays one bass note, then the index, middle, and ring fingers play their strings in turn, one finger per note. It's not a musically interesting pattern, it's a purely technical check - each finger should reach its string without aiming by eye.
Evenness matters more than speed
Fingers are physically different in length and strength - the ring finger is usually weaker and less obedient than the index and middle, which is exactly why a pattern most often sounds quieter or uneven on that finger. Train the weak link specifically, not what's already working - otherwise the volume difference between fingers stays audible.
Don't watch the picking hand
Watching the picking hand while playing is a natural but progress-slowing reflex - fingers should find the string by feel, not visual guidance, because in real playing your attention is needed on the fretting hand and the neck. You can train this deliberately - close your eyes or look away for a few minutes of pattern practice.
How to add complexity gradually
After one hit per finger, add the same finger playing twice in a row, then a different finger order within one bar. Each new level of complexity is worth taking to automatic under a metronome before adding the next - the same principle as any other guitar technique.
Try it in practice
Open the metronome