[Elecraft] Learning Code

[Rod N0RC]

Folks,


I followed the thread, and want to stress there are 3 aspects of
learning code:

1) Reception

Most of the information presented so far is about reception. All of it
is good advice. Take some time to try the different methods and find
what works best for you, we all learn differently. But let me stress
this: include in your "lesson plan" on-air reception. Code over a
shortwave radio circuit sounds much different than "clean-machine"
code.


2) Transmission

Some have mentioned it, practice sending. Don't under-estimate the
need for this! Code sent with proper element timing, character and
word spacing, is a pure joy to listen to. AND AMAZINGLY EASY to
copy!!! The most difficult code to copy is what I call run on
elements: A string of Morse elements [dot and dashes] with almost no
space between them.
It'sliketryingtoreadasentencelikethisonewithoutwhitespacesbetweenthewo
rds!


3) USAGE!

I don't think this was mentioned, it almost never is. Learn the
abbreviations, prosigns, message format conventions...etc. Some of the
best information concerning this aspect of Morse can be found at:

http://www.alltel.net/~johnshan/cw_ss_proc.html


You see Morse is just like any other language, you have to learn how
to read, write and USE it correctly. To do that is in the underlying
advice given by all: practice, practice, practice.

GL

73, Rod N0RC
Ft Collins, CO