what i like about this video is that, in some way, you can apply every tip in learning something new, not only Morse code, a language, an instrument; anything where persistence is needed.
The learning advice is definitely for learning anything new in general. It is a great way of helping anyone acquire new information, whatever it may be.
Just finding this video a few years later. Thanks for sharing your 5th tip. I think this is the first time someone has mentioned this, problem. This confusion is absolutely defeating the first few letters you experience this with.
You're welcome! I had never heard anyone talk about it before either, but as soon as you mention it everyone is like "oh, yeah, that happened to me too."
About 1963. Ameco code practice records (45s) checked out of the local amateur club. The local club built a break-apart picnic table with fancy Lafayette keys and phone jacks, and a practice oscillator operated by one of the amateurs. We learned. Best I ever did was just over 22 or so. There was, is and never will be so effective and so simple and so reliable a method of communications, "when all else fails."
Good tips Aaron. Couple more - when you copy code always write in cursive, don't print the characters and numbers (may be tough now with less emphasis on hand writing!). Once you've learned a good number of the letters and numbers listen on the air and you'll soon find that although you may not be able to copy 100% you'll start to get the gist of conversations and beginning to copy with less than perfect conditions will pay off in the long run. Finally, the best practice you can get is to get on the air and make contacts; yep, it'll be tough at first and you'll sweat bullets but once you get over those first jitters it'll be fun and your code speed will increase. 73 - Dino KL0S
Dino Papas Thanks! You bring up a good point about copying. If you can't copy efficiently, that will hold you up from receiving faster. Personally, I don't write very fast but I'm a good typist. I know a lot of folks have the opposite situation. It's worth thinking about how you're going to copy the code ahead of time so you don't get stuck later. Of course if you can copy in your head, no worries. I couldn't agree more about getting on the air as soon as possible, even if only to listen. It's fun and interesting and, as you say, possibly even educational!
Dino Papas actually, that may work for you - but its not exactly the best advise from a professional perspective in order for the telegram to be read by the watch officer who replaces you after you got taken out by seasickness or artillery shells - your writing need to be readable by anyone - "personal handwriting" is not always readable by anyone. So that is the alteration i have to make on your "kursiv" remark - the truth is somewhere in the middle as so often. (Yes, i am ex-navy operator) You need to find a fast writing style that is close enough to print characters so it can be read by anyone. telegrams can save lifes or cost lives... even today sometimes accurate transport of message does include the copy to paper or computer file.
Probably better put another way - my dad was a radio op in the merchant marines and when he helped me learn CW he told me to never lift my pencil up off the paper as I was copying; that may be closer to that "middle ground" of a mix of printed style letters and cursive.
As you mentioned, everyone learns differently. There are good tips here, like learning in short sessions, a chunk at a time. Additionally, dont try learning when youre tired and hungry. Get good rest. Also, the way I learned a few “problem” characters in Morse Code was through association. Have a look at Google Morse Code. They have a printable sheet that associates everyday objects with Morse Code. This helped me tremendously.
Pleasantly surprised with this. Aside from a couple of common sense tips, I especially found that last part especially good info to know. I don't think most people would intuitively know that hitting that difficult point of frustration is a good sign and your advice might keep a few people from quitting when they get to that point. Good stuff! Thank you.
This is great advice, by focusing on how we learn effectively. This advice is great for learning any language. I read that learning another language like Morse builds new synapsis in the brain.
Another method: For those with low aptitude for CW,join the Navy and get assigned to Radioman "A" school. 4 hours a day of code practice with a Navy Chief Petty Officer leaning over your shoulder does wonders for your ability to concentrate. Reached 22 WPM while the rest of the class was doing 26 or more.Wait, that won't work. Navy did away with Radioman. Relearning code to copy it with a pencil instead of a typewriter to get a ham license, SuperMorse worked great, but is DOS program.
I think I learnt through the Farnsworth Method, learning the symbols and writing them as we went, gradually increasing the speeds as we went, up to 25 WPM. It is 30 years later and still remember it do it obviously works well.
A very helpful video ! I tried learning morse code twice and gave up at the stage when the "interference started" . So I ended up being a restricted ham with a limited capability ....... the last tip that you gave is really remarkable . I wish I knew it before :)
We all learn differently and we all don't succeed under certain styles of teaching. Thanks for this! Not sure why I want to learn this, just think this may come in handy some day.
I really enjoy your videos Aaron and all of your engineering acumen. What is your first and second favorite CW keyers or other hardware assists for learning CW? Thanks again Aaron.
For practicing with an iambic paddle, I've mostly used my radio's built-in keyer (there's usually a way to put it in a mode where you just get the side-tone and it doesn't key up the radio). I've used an Ameco code practice oscillator for practicing with a straight-key. It's bulky and the tone is harsh, but it's a classic and a fun project to build if you get the kit. I built one of the QRP Guys Iambic Combo Trainers for a friend. I believe they've discontinued it. I thought the built-in paddles were kind of hokey, but the keyer and practice oscillator were great. It looks like their current Code Trainer has the keyer and practice oscillator without the paddles; that might be a good option if your radio doesn't have a built-in keyer.
First lesson at the OU was How to learn, and you are right. I'm more of a visual learner so I do best with images, and there is a phone app that works like flashcards. Once it's on your phone you can practice a bit anytime.
Glad I came across you. Just ordered the full course and anxiously awaiting it. The audio samples at your website was the big selling point -- Try before you buy sold me.
Glad you liked it! I think I did say "glaze over." I was pleasantly surprised to find that the automatically generated subtitles got it that way at least 😀
its easier when you use the attitude to really tell your self that : I´m really going to learn this !, and try to convert/translate letters you see on /by the road etc. learning group of code with 5 signs is one thing, but when you start to read real messages, its easy to be more interested in the message, than receiving/writing the next signs :) .....: my tip is : every alphabet letter is like a different music-group the Alpha is like "Abba" the Bravo is like "Beatles", and the Charlie is like "Chiccago" and so on ! this was just to explain how my brain likes to easyfy the morsecode with spoken words ! every letter/sign is like a melody, that the brain recognizes :) Good look, and Gd Dx ;) de LA6REA .: EVERYONE CAN LEARN IT , its just about how hard you want to learn it !, and always remember the same old good trick that nothing is impossible for god, and the morsecodeman,/or the plumber ;)
good tips aaron. in 1987 i had clasroom trainings and a coach talking us through those difficult moments. Nowadays people sit at home, trying to do the same autodidactically... you tips are cruicial there
Simple and humble explanation~ and very clear and motivational~ I am just starting to immerse in this hobby~ trying to memorize the alphabets~ and train my listening memory~
The problem I have is I need to have some way to _unlearn_ Morse Code as visual "dots" and "dashes", because I feel that might be hindering my ability to receive CW by ear.
This is something that I want to learn and apply to other topics - living in Thailand I can apply that to learning Thai, being in Thailand for 13 years and not being able to speak Thai well is a good incentive. Again thanks for the Video.
I originally learned by looking at a chart of dits and dahs. BIG MISTAKE! I had to unlearn all that in order to learn by ear. I learned by listening to a cassette tape. You're right about learning three or four characters at a time. I have since created a couple of Morse code apps for Android phones and tablets.
No. I made AE Morse Code Tutor which ranges from 5 to 15 words per minute, and later I made Morse Code Trainer, which ranges from 5 to 40 words per minute.
I learned the morse alphabet really quick, maybe in a few days, but I have trouble to hear and recognize the letters when I listen. I'm good at writing it and "tapping" it quickly though. What should I do?
+Ellani Did you initially learn by looking at a chart? If you'd like to receive by ear, it's best to learn and practice receiving by ear. I recommend not looking at a visual chart. It's hard to "un-see" once you've done it and having to translate from sound to visual representation to meaning will make it hard to build speed.
As you've found, the spacing length in Morse code is just as important to understanding its meaning as the element length. Usually the time between two elements is the same as a dit, the time between characters three dits worth and the time between words seven dits worth. Some operators use timing slightly different from this or vary their timing in a distinctive way; you may be able to recognize an operators "fist" in the same way you'd recognize someone else's voice.
As far as I know, it's mainly amateur radio operators. If you're not familiar with the hobby, the ARRL has a nice overview of it at www.arrl.org/what-is-ham-radio/
I've seen American Morse Code and International Morse Code? I imagine because these are different there must be other Morse Codes that are different? How do you know what code to learn? I believe I read International is for Ham radio operators? Your thoughts? Steph P.S. Thanks for your generous consideration in sharing your tips !!! :) :) :)
My understanding is that American Morse is essentially extinct. I'm not aware of any significant remaining use other than in historical displays and re-enactments. If someone can correct me on that, I'd be interested to learn something new!
The shelves were actually carefully engineered to have the required strength. After a few comments about the sag, though, I've added additional support to make them look more sturdy. 😂
what i like about this video is that, in some way, you can apply every tip in learning something new, not only Morse code, a language, an instrument; anything where persistence is needed.
+Luis Mejia Thanks Luis! I bet you're right, these tips could be useful for a variety of similar learning endeavors.
+Luis Mejia I said just that when I posted the video, along with a couple of basic morse learning videos, on Facebook.
The learning advice is definitely for learning anything new in general. It is a great way of helping anyone acquire new information, whatever it may be.
Quite agree, persistence is all that is required.
Just finding this video a few years later. Thanks for sharing your 5th tip. I think this is the first time someone has mentioned this, problem. This confusion is absolutely defeating the first few letters you experience this with.
You're welcome! I had never heard anyone talk about it before either, but as soon as you mention it everyone is like "oh, yeah, that happened to me too."
About 1963. Ameco code practice records (45s) checked out of the local amateur club. The local club built a break-apart picnic table with fancy Lafayette keys and phone jacks, and a practice oscillator operated by one of the amateurs. We learned. Best I ever did was just over 22 or so. There was, is and never will be so effective and so simple and so reliable a method of communications, "when all else fails."
I got my license about 2 months ago with no intention on learning Morse. Now I can't get enough of it.
That's great! Hope to see you on the bands :)
Thanks a lot. I'm having the exact problems you are talking about and your "pep" talk really helps.
Good tips Aaron. Couple more - when you copy code always write in cursive, don't print the characters and numbers (may be tough now with less emphasis on hand writing!).
Once you've learned a good number of the letters and numbers listen on the air and you'll soon find that although you may not be able to copy 100% you'll start to get the gist of conversations and beginning to copy with less than perfect conditions will pay off in the long run.
Finally, the best practice you can get is to get on the air and make contacts; yep, it'll be tough at first and you'll sweat bullets but once you get over those first jitters it'll be fun and your code speed will increase. 73 - Dino KL0S
Dino Papas Thanks!
You bring up a good point about copying. If you can't copy efficiently, that will hold you up from receiving faster. Personally, I don't write very fast but I'm a good typist. I know a lot of folks have the opposite situation. It's worth thinking about how you're going to copy the code ahead of time so you don't get stuck later. Of course if you can copy in your head, no worries.
I couldn't agree more about getting on the air as soon as possible, even if only to listen. It's fun and interesting and, as you say, possibly even educational!
Dino Papas actually, that may work for you - but its not exactly the best advise from a professional perspective
in order for the telegram to be read by the watch officer who replaces you after you got taken out by seasickness or artillery shells - your writing need to be readable by anyone - "personal handwriting" is not always readable by anyone.
So that is the alteration i have to make on your "kursiv" remark - the truth is somewhere in the middle as so often.
(Yes, i am ex-navy operator)
You need to find a fast writing style that is close enough to print characters so it can be read by anyone.
telegrams can save lifes or cost lives... even today sometimes accurate transport of message does include the copy to paper or computer file.
Probably better put another way - my dad was a radio op in the merchant marines and when he helped me learn CW he told me to never lift my pencil up off the paper as I was copying; that may be closer to that "middle ground" of a mix of printed style letters and cursive.
Dino Papas aye aye.. but merchant navy is still something else than military.
my dad used a typewriter :-)
Wow The cliff-note version of MORSE, I'll keep you updated !
As you mentioned, everyone learns differently. There are good tips here, like learning in short sessions, a chunk at a time. Additionally, dont try learning when youre tired and hungry. Get good rest. Also, the way I learned a few “problem” characters in Morse Code was through association. Have a look at Google Morse Code. They have a printable sheet that associates everyday objects with Morse Code. This helped me tremendously.
His voice is so pleasing
Filupnot
😂
Pleasantly surprised with this. Aside from a couple of common sense tips, I especially found that last part especially good info to know. I don't think most people would intuitively know that hitting that difficult point of frustration is a good sign and your advice might keep a few people from quitting when they get to that point. Good stuff! Thank you.
+RationallySkeptical Thanks! I'm glad you found it helpful.
This is great advice, by focusing on how we learn effectively. This advice is great for learning any language. I read that learning another language like Morse builds new synapsis in the brain.
Another method: For those with low aptitude for CW,join the Navy and get assigned to Radioman "A" school. 4 hours a day of code practice with a Navy Chief Petty Officer leaning over your shoulder does wonders for your ability to concentrate. Reached 22 WPM while the rest of the class was doing 26 or more.Wait, that won't work. Navy did away with Radioman.
Relearning code to copy it with a pencil instead of a typewriter to get a ham license, SuperMorse worked great, but is DOS program.
I think I learnt through the Farnsworth Method, learning the symbols and writing them as we went, gradually increasing the speeds as we went, up to 25 WPM. It is 30 years later and still remember it do it obviously works well.
Sounds like it did! 😃
A very helpful video ! I tried learning morse code twice and gave up at the stage when the "interference started" . So I ended up being a restricted ham with a limited capability ....... the last tip that you gave is really remarkable . I wish I knew it before :)
+VU3VWB Thanks for the kind words! It's never too late to learn ;)
We all learn differently and we all don't succeed under certain styles of teaching. Thanks for this!
Not sure why I want to learn this, just think this may come in handy some day.
Same, all the best ^_^
I really enjoy your videos Aaron and all of your engineering acumen. What is your first and second favorite CW keyers or other hardware assists for learning CW? Thanks again Aaron.
For practicing with an iambic paddle, I've mostly used my radio's built-in keyer (there's usually a way to put it in a mode where you just get the side-tone and it doesn't key up the radio). I've used an Ameco code practice oscillator for practicing with a straight-key. It's bulky and the tone is harsh, but it's a classic and a fun project to build if you get the kit. I built one of the QRP Guys Iambic Combo Trainers for a friend. I believe they've discontinued it. I thought the built-in paddles were kind of hokey, but the keyer and practice oscillator were great. It looks like their current Code Trainer has the keyer and practice oscillator without the paddles; that might be a good option if your radio doesn't have a built-in keyer.
u have the calmest voice I've ever heard u should not be in the morse code profession lol. u need that soothing voice on radio. great tips though
+Josh NOW Thanks for the kind words! No worries, I like to work voice as well. ;)
Josh NOW ever heard of BOB ROSS???
he should/could do both :)
Josh NOW he has a face for radio too. Lol
First lesson at the OU was How to learn, and you are right. I'm more of a visual learner so I do best with images, and there is a phone app that works like flashcards. Once it's on your phone you can practice a bit anytime.
Glad I came across you. Just ordered the full course and anxiously awaiting it. The audio samples at your website was
the big selling point -- Try before you buy sold me.
+dharjo Thanks for the kind words! Hope to see you on the bands soon.
Excellent. Thankyou. Just a small pointer: at 2:12-13 your eyes would "glaze over" not "blaze over". Thanks again.
Glad you liked it! I think I did say "glaze over." I was pleasantly surprised to find that the automatically generated subtitles got it that way at least 😀
its easier when you use the attitude to really tell your self that : I´m really going to learn this !, and try to convert/translate letters you see on /by the road etc.
learning group of code with 5 signs is one thing, but when you start to read real messages, its easy to be more interested in the message, than receiving/writing the next signs :) .....: my tip is : every alphabet letter is like a different music-group the Alpha is like "Abba" the Bravo is like "Beatles", and the Charlie is like "Chiccago" and so on ! this was just to explain how my brain likes to easyfy the morsecode with spoken words ! every letter/sign is like a melody, that the brain recognizes :) Good look, and Gd Dx ;) de LA6REA .: EVERYONE CAN LEARN IT , its just about how hard you want to learn it !, and always remember the same old good trick that nothing is impossible for god, and the morsecodeman,/or the plumber ;)
That shelf behind you break yet?J/K, good video :D
+Dolmdemon Too much test gear. If there is such a thing ;)
+K5AXL LOL
Concentrate on the video, not the test gear.... hehehe :-)
How's your morse ? LOL
I hope not, but that was the first thing I noticed. That shelf is one bump from collapsing with a lot of gear on it.
good come back...2 thumbs up...an interesting method to find another student and send and receive using audio ocillators .taking turns.
good tips aaron. in 1987 i had clasroom trainings and a coach talking us through those difficult moments.
Nowadays people sit at home, trying to do the same autodidactically...
you tips are cruicial there
I can relate to the slow down. I’m happy that it’s actually good news and not a brain deficit! LOL
Happens to everyone. Stick with it 😀
@@StuntProgrammer thank you. Oh I’m with this to the end as I love it! But it’s good to hear your feedback as I’m finding your comments helpful.
Thanks for posting. As far as the conversation below about too much test gear, I have two oscilloscopes. I like the old ones.
Simple and humble explanation~ and very clear and motivational~
I am just starting to immerse in this hobby~ trying to memorize the alphabets~ and train my listening memory~
Thanks for the tips, I just oredered a straight key...I really want to learn Morse Code.
The problem I have is I need to have some way to _unlearn_ Morse Code as visual "dots" and "dashes", because I feel that might be hindering my ability to receive CW by ear.
Great video. I love the disposition you carry.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.
Aron, thanks for the information. Its is very helpful.
Excellent tips! Thank you for sharing them.
Great advice, thank you for the words of encouragement, good stuff...
+Donald Howe Thanks for the kind words! I'm glad you found it useful.
His voice is very pleasing to the ears
This is very good advice. I appreciate your method very much, I am hoping that 2017 is my year to learn the code. 73
pcomp so did you learn the code?
This is something that I want to learn and apply to other topics - living in Thailand I can apply that to learning Thai, being in Thailand for 13 years and not being able to speak Thai well is a good incentive. Again thanks for the Video.
Thanks sir
good stuf! i see this was recorded a few yrs ago... i cnat help wonder if that equipment shelf has caved in under the load yet :)
Nah, it's good. Check some of my more recent videos 😉
I originally learned by looking at a chart of dits and dahs. BIG MISTAKE! I had to unlearn all that in order to learn by ear. I learned by listening to a cassette tape. You're right about learning three or four characters at a time. I have since created a couple of Morse code apps for Android phones and tablets.
No. I made AE Morse Code Tutor which ranges from 5 to 15 words per minute, and later I made Morse Code Trainer, which ranges from 5 to 40 words per minute.
well put...thank you for the help and motivation.
thanks man
#5 is the textbook definition of a "learning plateau" which we talk about a lot in flight instruction. Learning Morse doesn't come easy (to me).
Thankyou so much Aron,big help,William.
Uh
I got the interference effect literally four letters in
But good tips honestly
I concur with you!
You are an excellent orator
Thanks
You're welcome! 😀
I learned the morse alphabet really quick, maybe in a few days, but I have trouble to hear and recognize the letters when I listen. I'm good at writing it and "tapping" it quickly though. What should I do?
+Ellani Did you initially learn by looking at a chart? If you'd like to receive by ear, it's best to learn and practice receiving by ear. I recommend not looking at a visual chart. It's hard to "un-see" once you've done it and having to translate from sound to visual representation to meaning will make it hard to build speed.
I have seen some examples of Morse code like • • - • • • • - • • this really very confusing how can we read this word ? When there's no spacing 🙁😟😑😑😑
As you've found, the spacing length in Morse code is just as important to understanding its meaning as the element length. Usually the time between two elements is the same as a dit, the time between characters three dits worth and the time between words seven dits worth. Some operators use timing slightly different from this or vary their timing in a distinctive way; you may be able to recognize an operators "fist" in the same way you'd recognize someone else's voice.
Where do people use morse code in 2019 thank you,,,i really want ro know
As far as I know, it's mainly amateur radio operators. If you're not familiar with the hobby, the ARRL has a nice overview of it at www.arrl.org/what-is-ham-radio/
Hey Aaron thanks, that's encouraging :)
How do you tap dashes? I've spent way too long trying to research this and absolutely nobody on the face of the earth knows how to answer
ive recently started learning morse code and find it quite interesting but where will i get the chance to use it
I've seen American Morse Code and International Morse Code? I imagine because these are different there must be other Morse Codes that are different? How do you know what code to learn? I believe I read International is for Ham radio operators? Your thoughts?
Steph
P.S. Thanks for your generous consideration in sharing your tips !!! :) :) :)
My understanding is that American Morse is essentially extinct. I'm not aware of any significant remaining use other than in historical displays and re-enactments. If someone can correct me on that, I'd be interested to learn something new!
Thank you,this really helped!!
+Ansel Pierson You're welcome! I'm glad it was useful to you.
After seeing this video, its apparent Iv been pushing to hard too fast :)
A little bit every day is the way to go! :)
Excellent video.. thanks 73 from ZS1CDG
That shelf is gonna give up the ghost soon!
Where is the link to your course?
skilman.com/
Is anyone going to point out his shelf looks ready to give the ghost? I am pretty sure that equipment is worth more than my soul.
The shelves were actually carefully engineered to have the required strength. After a few comments about the sag, though, I've added additional support to make them look more sturdy. 😂
good tips...
Ahah! Late to the dance again but I see that your bench is not always immaculate! Just kidding, of course. Yoy do some interesting videos
It varies 😉 Thanks for the kind words!
I can do the morse code characters but i can hardly understand it if i hear the real dits and dahs already😨😂
Keep at it. I'm sure you'll get there 😀
Suree. I've been exposing my self early in the morning and during the night for the sound to make me accustomed to it😅
I want to know how long it took you?
Years on and off, struggling with things that didn't work well. Once I found a good strategy for learning, I think it was a few months.
This video cave me more cofedens to do more mores code.ki7fuo
-. .. -.-. .!N I c e!
I know a,u and d
you audio level is too low
Thank you!
Thanks for the video, but it is not pronounced "Morris code", but "Morse code".
thanks help a lot 73 from kb2uew
Glad to hear it! I hope to see you on the air 😀
Thankyou so much Aron,big help,William.
Thankyou so much Aron,big help,William.
..../.. / :)