[Elecraft] OT: Learning the code

[Gary K9GS]

On 5/28/2014 3:03 PM, Ray Sills, K2ULR, wrote:

<snip>
>
> If you have the ability to learn a new word in your spoken vocabulary, 
> then you certainly have the ability to learn morse code.  It's really 
> not any more complex.  Every spoken word has a beginning, and an end, 
> and when you hear it spoken, you have to wait until the word is 
> finished before you "understand" fully what the word is.  Your brain 
> "buffers" the incoming sound, and then when you "decode" the sounds, 
> then instantly, you "know" the word.  Sure, context and experience 
> help you decode things more quickly.
>
> It is exactly the same with a morse character.  And the more you use 
> it (practice), the easier it becomes.
>

Ray has this exactly correct and this fits perfectly with my earlier 
comment about actually getting on the air and making some QSOs. Becoming 
proficient at Morse is very much like learning a second language.  You 
can buy all of the learning aids like Rosetta Stone and you will learn 
the basics.  But to become proficient in a second language nothing beats 
having an actual conversation.  Morse is no different; having actual 
QSOs or conversations teaches you the nuances and you become comfortable 
with mistakes and errors in sending and receiving.  Just like an actual 
conversation.

I have a friend who is proficient in many languages.  He actually spent 
a summer in Holland because he wanted to learn Dutch.  He was able to 
become conversant in a couple of weeks.  Once you have the basic letter 
sounds down, put away the microphone and for yourself to make a certain 
number of QSOs each day.  Also, don't focus too much on what speed you 
send and receive.  Speed will increase with proficiency.

That's why the CW Ops Morse Academy is so successful.  See K9YC's 
earlier post.

-- 


73,

Gary K9GS

Greater Milwaukee DX Association: http://www.gmdxa.org
Society of Midwest Contesters: http://www.w9smc.com
CW Ops #1032   http://www.cwops.org

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