Morse Code Practice Guidelines

Well-sent Morse code is a pleasure to listen to. It takes some practice, and this chapter will cover some good practice techniques.

Chapter 4: Practice, Practice, Practice!

Some guidelines to consider:

  1. I encourage you to do 15 minutes of practice at a time. Take a break and do and think something else, relax. Come back fresh and do another 15 minutes.
  2. You want to set dedicated time aside for at least one — preferably two — practice session each day.
  • Do not overextend your practice session. Once the mind goes numb, you will only frustrate yourself if you continue to drill.
  • Here's an idea: If you are attending a class once or twice a week, make a note of characters that you are needing extra help with. Ask your instructor to drill you on those problem areas. He or she will also be introducing new material for you to practice on. To make the best of your class time, please come in as refreshed as you can.

    • Continues↗

    Take in the signs along your travels

    While you are out and about, see how many characters you recognize the Morse code for. From road signs, business names, billboards, sound out the letters. When you see a Speed Limit sign for instance: Say, “Di-di-dit di-DAH-DAH-dit dit dit DAH-di-dit. Di-DAH-di-dit di-dit DAH-DAH di-dit DAH. ‘Speed Limit.’” Keep in mind the 3-to-1 timing ratio between the DAH and the dit.

    Of course, in heavy traffic, this advice needs to take second place if you’re driving!

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