[Elecraft] Learning CW

[kc4kgu@ENTERZONE.NET]

On Wed, 20 Feb 2002, Jeff Stout wrote:

> 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?  Also, is a Code
> practice oscillator/generator worth purchasing?  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.

Jeff, I am not sure of this was in QST or not but, I recall receiving an
email from ARRL with regards to different "learning styles" and the
association of those styles with the success of individuals learning the
code.  I am one of the "visual" learners meaning, I tend to make a mental
image of things to learn them.  As result, my learning code involved using
a straight key and oscillator.  When I copy code now, I can see my own
hand on the key sending the code.  It may sound strange but, that's how it
works for me at least and after seeing the ARRL article, at least I know
I'm not alone.  There is one benefit to this.  I got to learn how to send
while I was learning how to copy.

As for which is the most important to learn, from a licensing standpoint,
copying the code is the most important.  There is no sending
requirement.  Once you get your new ticket, actually HAVING the ticket and
wanting to engage in CW QSOs will probably drive you to get your sending
skills on par with your copy skills.

> 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 personally find it hard to work at 5 WPM.  I'm not trying to be stuck up
here.  I just tend to get ahead of the sender while I'm copying.  If you
find it easier to work at 13 WPM, go for it.  You won't be alone.  The CW
exam is not that long and you'll have no problems "slowing down" to copy 5
WPM if you work and learn at 13 WPM.

Good Luck!

73 de John KC4KGU