In the official terminology of Morse code, dots are called “dits,” pronounced with a short “i” sound and a silent “t. ” Dashes are formally known as “dahs,” with a short “a” sound.
Though the Morse code alphabet is a helpful resource, most accomplished users recommend learning the system by its sounds rather than the way it’s represented in the text. This greatly simplifies the process by getting rid of the extra step of referencing the way the signals look when written out. A downloadable reproduction of the Morse code alphabet can also be found at the bottom of this article. Remember that there are different Morse code alphabets. The American Morse code alphabet and the international Morse code alphabet have slight variations. The picture shown is the international Morse code alphabet.
Pay attention to the spacing between words and letters. Each letter should be separated by a space equal to one dash, while complete words should be separated by the space of seven dots. The more meticulous your spacing is, the more likely it is that your message will be understood. It is generally faster to learn Morse code by sound rather than sight since it allows you to forego the process of counting up dits and dahs. [2] X Research source
Devise your own word associations that will help link sequences of signals with their related sounds naturally in your mind. Jot down a few word associations in a notebook and study them while getting the hang of reciting each letter out loud.
Two and three letter words (“me” = - - • ) (“cat” = -•-• •- - ) will be easiest to commit to memory when you’re first getting a feel for the format. The sequence for the distress call “SOS” ( • • • - - - • • • ) should be one of the first things you learn, as it could potentially save your life in an emergency situation. [4] X Research source Another common distress call is CQD ("-•-• –•- -••") which is also essential. [5] X Research source defiel. com/morse-code-sos-light/
An extensive collection of Morse code recordings are available for listening practice in the archives of the American Radio Relay League. [7] X Research source If you own a ham radio, tune into HF frequencies to get a taste of the real thing. [8] X Research source Purchase practice recordings to receive instruction that’s tailored to your comprehension level. “Morse Code Teacher” by Gordon West is a good place to start.
When you’re just getting started, use books aimed at first-time readers, such as “Fun with Dick and Jane. ” These books are known for their famously simple sentences (“See Spot run. Run, Spot, run!” = ••• • • ••• •–• — - •-• ••- -• •-•-•- •-• ••- -• –••– ••• •–• — - –••– •-• ••- -• ) This is a useful strategy for helping you meet speed goals. For instance, if you’re attempting to copy five words per minute and there are about ten words on each page, you should strive to complete each page in roughly two minutes.
After you become more competent, keep a journal exclusively in Morse code. For regular practice, get in the habit of copying out your grocery list, the names of your loved ones, haikus, or other short messages.
Make a set of flashcards and have a friend or loved one quiz you. Send text messages in dots and dashes instead of your ordinary language.
Using an app will enable you to practice at your own leisure at home or on the go. Combine app-based study with pen-and-paper practice to reinforce your code comprehension in all its different forms.
Instructors are qualified to present various methods that are effective for teaching different types of learners. Through classroom study, you may be granted access to helpful software and devices that would otherwise be hard to come by.
Keep a notepad and pencil handy to copy dits and dahs as you hear them tabbed out. Reviewing the visual component alongside the recordings that will make it easier to recognize Morse code messages in different forms. [12] X Research source One advantage of audio lessons is that they can be replayed over and over again to cement critical concepts and help you learn at a comfortable pace.
