1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and, etc. Counting the beats in music is crucial for learning to read music. I am learning the value of counting out loud when learning a new song.
The Time Signature of a song/score in guitar music is included in the beginning of the piece and anytime there is a change throughout the song. These numbers are key to understanding what the song is supposed to sound like, especially if you have never heard it before.