[CW] How to get proficient in morse?

[Matt Maguire]

The thing to realise is, a QSO has a fairly standard format, so you know pretty much what to expect. You need to get the guy's callsign, which can be a bit tricky, but they'll send it more than once. You are going to get a signal report that likely starts with 5 and ends in 9. You'll get a QTH and usually a name. After that, standard topics are rig/ant/pwr, wx, etc.. So really, unless you get into a ragchew, it's pretty easy. Just ask for a repeat if you miss something.

As for practice buddies, there is a great system, and no Internet required. It's called "Calling CQ". Practice buddies will spring up everywhere :-)

There are some computer programs that can help, like Morse Runner and Rufzeichnen that simulate callsigns and QSOs. Keep in mind, though, that
you'll get good at whatever you practice, so if you want to be good at real QSOs, then you should practice real QSOs.

Apart from that, realise that QSOs involve a lot of abbreviations, so get used to recognising the sound of those abbreviations.

I'll be interested to hear what others have to say on this topic.

73 ES GL,
Matt VK2ACL


On 11/10/2011, at 2:23 PM, "Michiel Wories" <mwories at hotmail.com> wrote:

> Hi,
>  
> This is probably a question that pops from time to time. I had been learning morse code a while ago using the Koch method. I was able to reliably copy code at decent speed, but making a transition in copying real QSO’s seems a transition is seems hard.
>  
> I read various articles about the do’s and don’ts and various learning techniques.
>  
> I seem to be able to stuck however, when I am trying to copy a real QSO the brain goes in overload. Not even mentioning sending code.
>  
> What helped you learn this? I realize not everyone learns the same, but I’d  like to get some of the collective wisdom of this group.
>  
> I also have a feeling having a practice buddy may help. Is there a system for this, ideally through the internet?
>  
> I have to note I have limited time available. Maybe this is the core of the problem, but if there is a way to get there gradually, I’d love to know.
>  
> Thanks,
> Michiel W7MJW
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