Techniques
Fingers
2 Finger Instructional Video
The most common way to play the bass guitar is by using the index, and middle finger by alternating them. You pluck the strings with your fingers. This video gives great instructions on how to do this.
Slap & Pop
Slap Bass Instructional Video
The Slap & Pop technique, commonly known as "slap bass". You strike a "larger string with your thumb, and then "pop" up a smaller string with your index finger. This video gives great instructions on how to do this.
Pick
Picking the Bass Instructional Video
The pick method is similiar to a guitar. You can "downstroke" or "upstroke" or "alternate pick", which is when you move the pick up and down on the string. This video gives great instructions on how to do this.
Bow
Violin Bow Bass Instructional Video
The bow method is very unique and rarely used. You basically use a violin bow to play instead of your fingers or a pick. This video gives great instructions on how to do this.