[Elecraft] Learning CW

[N2EY@aol.com]

> In a message dated Wed, 20 Feb 2002 10:51:11 AM Eastern Standard Time, Jeff Stout <w5jfs@yahoo.com> writes:
>  
> > My New Year's Resolution:
> > 
> > After having been subscribed to the list almost since it's inception, I finally have the time and inclination to upgrade from TECH to GENERAL and maybe even EXTRA!   I have been reading and learning about the great Elecraft products, and I intend to purchase and build one this year.  However, I'm using my upgrade in license class as my incentive, and the K1 as my reward...
> 
> Jeff:
> 
> BRAVO!!!!
> > 
> > Knowing the reponse from the list, I'll probably get about 25 different avenues to pursue, but I can narrow down which is best for me...so here goes:  Is there a good/better/best/preferred/proven way to learn CW accurately and quickly?   Tapes?   CD? Online Study Practice Sessions?   Or even a local (to DFW) class or tutor? 
> 
> All of the above - it depends on the individual.
> 
> First thing to do is go to
> 
> http://www.qsl.net/n9bor/n0hff.htm
> 
> and download a FREE terrific book on the subject.
> 
> > Also, is a Code practice oscillator/generator worth purchasing? 
> 
> YES.
> 
> > And should I practice sending and receiving to pass the test...does sending help receiving?  Obviously I need to learn both, but what is most important to learn first?  I have always heard it is assumed you can probably send accurately if you can receive reliably.
> 
> It helps to learn both simultaneously. They help each
> other. Most people find learning sending to be easier
> than learning to receive, so tailor practice time
> accordingly.
> 
> Also, learn to send using a straight key only, until
> you develop the timing and skill. Helps when you go
> to learn a keyer or bug. 
> > 
> > Based on my current schedule and obligations, I could safely dedicate about 1 hour a day to practice, maybe split between 1/2 hour in the morning and 1/2 hour at night...
> 
> That's just about ideal! 
> 
> >The written examinations I can handle without much problem, but HF is calling my name, and I want to answer in CW...
> >
> It's a wonderful mode that is too little appreciated. A
> rig like the Elecrafts really makes it fun.
>  
> > I should also add that I'd not be opposed to learning at a higher speed than 5 WPM, as I'm sure there are many more QSO's available to someone with better skills.  Is it better to learn at 5, then enhance your speed.....or just learn it at say 13 WPM?
> 
> I think the optimum method is to use "Farnsworth 
> spacing" for all receiving learning. This means the
> letters are sent fast, with long spaces between.
> Keeps you from "counting" the sounds and getting bored.
> One does not speak verrry sllowwwllly to a child just
> learning to talk, but one does simplify the vocabulary
> and leave lots of space between words.
> 
> Most people do well with the "Koch method". This
> consists simply of learning just two letters at first,
> and practicing just those two letters until the 
> student reaches 90-95% accuracy. Then ONE new letter is
> added, and the three are practiced until 90-95% 
> accuracy is reached. Then ONE new letter is added, etc.,
> until you run out of letters/numbers/prosigns to add.
> 
> All of the following work best for me. YMMV:
> 
> - Block printing by the Signal Corps method is MUCH better than longhand. (Signal Corps method uses all caps and a minimum of strokes per letter). 
> - #2 pencil for me is much better than any sort of pen. 
> - Lined paper better than unlined. 
> - Headphones better than speaker (room echoes)
> - Good solid table and chair with nonglare light helps
>   a lot.
> - A session EVERY DAY, even for just 15-20 minutes, does
>   much more good than the same time all piled up on one
>   day. 
> - The most progress comes when you are not getting 100%
>   or even 90% copy. Listen to stuff that's "too fast"
>   for a while, and your regular speed will sound slow.
> 
> Good luck - and please let us know how you are doing!
> 
> 73 de Jim, N2EY