Musing's from a CW Newbie
Here are some ways I am learning CW which may work for you as well.
Practice at least once a day for 15mins. 15mins is the key here, go in small bursts so it all has time to sink in.
15-20WPM with a Farnsworth (letter space) at 5WPM is a great start. Later when you want to speed up this will be a huge help and also gets you in the habbit of hearing the sounds and not trying to count dits and dahs (don't count!).
When it comes to sending (worry about this least of all) some say use a strait key over a paddle or bug. I say use what you are going to use...I.E. if you plan to use a paddle then practice with one.
Some helpful software is G4FON's Koch Method Trainer. This software has been a big help and has a lot of options to mimic operating conditions. I have also been listening to on air QSO's at various speeds.
Some phone apps that use the Koch method work pretty good and pass the time.
Practice at least once a day for 15mins. 15mins is the key here, go in small bursts so it all has time to sink in.
15-20WPM with a Farnsworth (letter space) at 5WPM is a great start. Later when you want to speed up this will be a huge help and also gets you in the habbit of hearing the sounds and not trying to count dits and dahs (don't count!).
When it comes to sending (worry about this least of all) some say use a strait key over a paddle or bug. I say use what you are going to use...I.E. if you plan to use a paddle then practice with one.
Some helpful software is G4FON's Koch Method Trainer. This software has been a big help and has a lot of options to mimic operating conditions. I have also been listening to on air QSO's at various speeds.
Some phone apps that use the Koch method work pretty good and pass the time.
Don't have a paddle or key?
Build one! it is very easy with just some random parts.
Build one! it is very easy with just some random parts.
Another learning material "The Art & Skill of Radio-Telegraphy" By William G. Pierpont, N0HFF.
You can find this in PDF form or buy a printed copy.
Best of luck learning CW and remember to take it one step at a time, take a break if needed and most of all have fun!
You can find this in PDF form or buy a printed copy.
Best of luck learning CW and remember to take it one step at a time, take a break if needed and most of all have fun!