How to Learn Morse Code: 12 Steps (with Images)

Table of contents:

How to Learn Morse Code: 12 Steps (with Images)
How to Learn Morse Code: 12 Steps (with Images)

Video: How to Learn Morse Code: 12 Steps (with Images)

Video: How to Learn Morse Code: 12 Steps (with Images)
Video: LEARN MORSE CODE from a MEMORY CHAMP (in 15 minutes) 2024, March
Anonim

Morse code is a communication system that uses a series of dots and dashes to send coded messages, and was developed by Samuel F. B. Morse. Although it was originally created as a way to communicate using telegraph lines, it is still used today by radio amateurs and is also useful for sending urgent signals in emergencies. Although it is not difficult to learn it, it takes dedication and study, as in any other language. Once you learn the meaning of the basic signs, you can start writing and translating your own messages.

Steps

Part 1 of 3: Learning Morse Code Signs

Learn Morse Code Step 1
Learn Morse Code Step 1

Step 1. Learn the meaning of the basic signs

This code is composed of two sign units, the dots and dashes. Your first objective will be to learn to recognize these units as they appear in the text. Dots look like single endpoints, while dashes are long, horizontal lines that look like hyphens. All letters of the Portuguese alphabet can be represented using these two signs.

  • In official terminology, points are called "dits".
  • The dashes are called "dahs".
Learn Morse Code Step 2
Learn Morse Code Step 2

Step 2. Check the Morse code alphabet

Take a look at the alphabet and use it as a reference when trying to decipher single characters. As you walk past it, pay attention to each letter or numeral and recite the corresponding dit-dah combination out loud. Over time, you'll be able to remember pieces of code based on how they sound and look.

  • Although the Morse code alphabet is a useful feature, most users recommend learning the system by sound rather than the way it is represented on paper. This greatly simplifies the process, as it frees you from the extra step of checking what signals look like when they're written.
  • You can also find a reproduction of the alphabet for download at the end of this article.
Learn Morse Code Step 3
Learn Morse Code Step 3

Step 3. Recite each sign

Practice saying the dits and dahs aloud, in the correct rhythm. Dits are a short one-syllable sound. Dahs, on the other hand, are more dragged and should last about three times the time of a dit. It is by this change of pace that individual units are recognized in Morse code.

  • Pay attention to the spacing between words and letters. Each letter must be separated by a space equal to a dash, while complete words must be separated by a space of seven dashes. The more meticulous your spacing, the greater the chance that your message will be understood.
  • It's generally faster to learn Morse code by hearing than by sight, so you don't have to keep counting dits and dahs.
Learn Morse Code Step 4
Learn Morse Code Step 4

Step 4. Make associations between words

The association can help you remember the letters and numbers in the code. For example, you can associate the letter C with the word "offset", which starts with C, has the same number of syllables, and even the same stressed syllable. Other examples include "apple" for the case of M and "Ricardo" for the case of R.

  • Make your own associations that will help you link sequences of signals with the sounds naturally in your head.
  • Write down some associations using a notebook and study them while you are learning to recite each letter aloud.
Learn Morse Code Step 5
Learn Morse Code Step 5

Step 5. Start forming basic letters and words

The easiest letters for beginners are those represented by a dit or dah. For example, the letter E is made up of a dit, while the letter T is made up of a dah. From them, you can move to two dits (I) and dahs (M), and so on. Learn the basic characters well before making more complex sentences.

  • Words composed of two and three letters ("I" = -) ("wing" = .- ….-) will be easier to commit to memory when you are starting to understand the format.
  • The sequence for the "SOS" emergency call (… --- …) is one of the first things to learn as it can save your life in an emergency.

Part 2 of 3: Practicing Morse Code

Learn Morse Code Step 6
Learn Morse Code Step 6

Step 1. Listen to recordings

Look for message recordings in Morse code that show you how this system communicates. Pay attention to the pauses between each character and the characters themselves. If you need to, slow down the playback to make it easier to capture each sound.

  • There is an extensive collection of Morse code recordings available for listening in the American Radio Relay League archives.
  • If you have a ham radio, tune into the HF bands to see how it works.
  • Purchase educational recordings to receive instructions suitable for your level of comprehension.
Learn Morse Code Step 7
Learn Morse Code Step 7

Step 2. Copy children's books

Their language is simple and perfect for practicing Morse code in the beginning. Go through the book page by page using the code. The system is designed to convey simple messages, so this type of book can be very useful as an exercise.

  • For starters, use literacy books, such as the Happy Way booklet. They are known for their very simple phrases ("The mouse gnawed at the wheel. The wheel got ugly". = - -- /.-..- - --- /.-. ---…- /.- /.-. --- -…-.-.-.- /.- /.-. --- -…- /..-… -.-. ---..- /..-…..-.-.-.-)
  • This strategy is useful to help you hit speed goals. For example, if you're trying to copy five words a minute and there are about ten words on each page, try to complete each page in about two minutes.
Learn Morse Code Step 8
Learn Morse Code Step 8

Step 3. Write yourself in Morse code

End each lesson by copying a few random words and phrases, then mix them up and translate them at the beginning of the next lesson. This way, you will reinforce your learning by observing and interpreting the same characters over and over again. Keep your vocabulary simple to make writing and reading messages more efficient.

  • When you know more, write a diary in Morse code only.
  • To practice, copy your shopping list, the names of loved ones, haiku or other short messages.
Learn Morse Code Step 9
Learn Morse Code Step 9

Step 4. Call a friend for help

If you know of someone else who is also trying to learn this code, the two of you can improve your skills together. Use the code to greet each other, communicate ideas or tell dirty jokes in secret. You're much more likely to learn if you have someone else to keep you motivated and make things fun.

  • Make a set of cards and have a friend or loved one ask you questions.
  • Send text messages in dots and dashes instead of the usual language.

Part 3 of 3: Using Other Resources

Learn Morse Code Step 10
Learn Morse Code Step 10

Step 1. Download an app to train Morse code

Nowadays, there are apps that can give you the possibility to study. They work partly on visual recognition and partly on audio, providing a more integrated learning experience. They also allow you to interact directly using your device's tactile feedback, similar to the way you traditionally send messages.

  • The app will allow you to study during your leisure time at home or while on the move.
  • Combine study with apps to practice with pencil and paper to reinforce your understanding of the code in all of its different forms.
Learn Morse Code Step 11
Learn Morse Code Step 11

Step 2. Take a face-to-face course

Some ham radio groups teach Morse code courses, which are usually open to everyone, ham radio or not. In the traditional classroom, you will have organized classes and personalized instruction, which can greatly enhance your ability to learn.

  • Teachers are able to present various effective methods for different types of students.
  • Through the course, you will be able to gain access to useful software and devices that would otherwise be difficult to acquire.
Learn Morse Code Step 12
Learn Morse Code Step 12

Step 3. Invest in an audio course

If you cannot find classroom classes in your region, another option is to study a set of recordings containing guided practices. Follow them at your own pace and complete the included exercises and activities. As you learn, you will move on to more difficult content, and your proficiency will improve.

  • Keep a notebook and pencil nearby to copy the dits and dahs as you listen. Reviewing the visual component along with the recordings will make the task of recognizing Morse code messages in different forms easier.
  • An advantage of the audio course is that it can be played over and over so that you can learn the main concepts well at a comfortable pace.

Tips

  • Morse code can be transmitted in a variety of ways, using flashlights, audio tones, and even eye blinks.
  • Don't be discouraged. Learning this code isn't easy and doesn't happen overnight. As with anything else, the more you practice, the better it will get.
  • A physical copy of the alphabet can help a lot, as you can take it with you and use it as a reference.
  • Survival courses sometimes offer emergency Morse code as part of the curriculum. They can be useful if you are interested in learning the code for practical purposes.
  • Study for a short time (20 to 30 minutes) so you don't lose focus or overload your brain with new information.

Recommended: