Learning CW

[KJ6HVA]

I've been trying to learn CW for a while now.  I'm using a free software known as "Just Learn Morse Code."  Does anyone here have any experiences with other ways to learn?  If so, would you recommend them?

[wb7sgl]

I believe the best way to learn it is to do it.

You can start by getting a rig that tunes to the HF bands, find someone sending CW then start copying. With practice, you'll be able to pick it up the right way. Not to say the software isn't teaching correctly... Don't spend time looking at the letters on paper and memorizing them by sight, it doesn't work that way and will result in slower copy speeds in the long term. You need to hear the characters and learn to associate the sound with the letter. It won't take long if you dedicate time to sit down and start deciphering what others are sending and you'll be surprised how well you do.

[KF7ATL]

No one method works for everyone.  Having said that, there are lots of places online to practice. Try a few and find one that you are comfortable with. I used aa9pw.com because I could use it online and didn't have to buy or download anything. Progress at your own speed. When you can copy 70-80% at your  current speed, move up to a faster speed. I find that listening at a speed that is slightly higher than my comfort level helps me the most. Try to practice a little every day. Even if you can only spare 10 minutes a day, that's okay.

Once I got to about 5-6 wpm I decided it was time to fish or cut bait, and I got on the air. I've never regretted that decision.  My first on-the-air contact was scary, and I only copied about half, but he was very patient with me. From that moment on I was hooked! It is great fun, and nothing makes you improve faster than on-the-air contacts. CW ops are great, and they are usually willing to go out of their way to help newbies. I don't know what band(s) you will be working, but go to SKCC and FISTS websites and find their suggested frequencies. There are always lots of slow-speed ops there.

73
Garth, KF7ATL