Originally Posted by
CbadRider
Here's another way of looking at it: The closer the chain is to the bike frame, the easier it is to pedal. When it's on the inside cogs closest to the frame, it's in the easiest gears. When it's on the outside cogs farthest from the frame, it's in the hardest gear.
This. And if it needs to be said for clarity, that applies to both the front and the rear.