[CW] Morse Training

[Ron Youvan]

> I can't get an illuminated tickertape image streaming across
> my visual awareness to stop.
> I don't know if it's a hindrance or a help. 

> Clearly the best is to have the words be somehow simply
> acknowledged and comprehended, without the visuals. But I'm
> stuck.

> How do you do it? Do you 'see' anything?

   When my first "code instructor" said: "BEP BEEP that is the letter A, visualize the 
letter A" I couldn't and haven't since, that was in 1973.  I never could.  I had to take 
another "code class" to become fast enough to be useful.  It has been tough, but now 
copying on paper is now pretty much sub-conscious and automatic, (it is a simple reaction, 
hear one melody, print a "Z") now I am trying to learn "head copy," and to a point I 
frequently do get the idea of what is being said without writing much or anything at all, 
from the context more than what is said.  I need much work in this area.
I have tried typing (into the computer) which to me would be and ideal way to keep copies 
of QSOs, but I haven't found any cw that was at the right speed for my typing, so far.
I think being able to "head copy" but not be able to produce hard copy is useless for 
anything but rag chewing.  We need to train ourself for message handling in case of an 
emergency, I think.
I send subconsciously using an iambic paddle and keyer except for words that I must spell 
out to my right arm, and some of those I really don't know how to spell.
-- 
    Ron  KA4INM - I'm proud to be Chuck's pop!