Discover the Art of Morse Code

Join a global community of radio enthusiasts and learn the timeless skill of CW communication

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Why Learn Morse Code?

Morse code is more than just dots and dashes—it's a growing hobby that connects you with a passionate community of radio enthusiasts worldwide. Just like vinyl records and typewriters, CW (continuous wave) communication is experiencing a renaissance, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and modern technology.

The thrill of making contacts using nothing but sound is incredibly rewarding. Whether you're participating in Parks on the Air (POTA), Summits on the Air (SOTA), or just making casual contacts, Morse code opens up a world of adventure and connection.

But beyond the technical aspects, it's the people that make this hobby special. You might come for the challenge, but you'll stay for the amazing community of fellow operators who are always eager to help newcomers find their way.

Portable ham radio setup in nature

Learning Morse Code

Most importantly, have fun! Learning Morse code is a journey filled with milestones to celebrate. If you're interested in learning, just "lock in" and enjoy the process.

1

Learn the Letters

Start with the Morse Mania App or similar tools to learn letters a few at a time. Morse Mania turns learning into an engaging game that makes the process enjoyable and effective.

2

Learn by Sound

Set your practice tool to 25-30 WPM to train your ear to recognize the sound of each letter, not individual dits and dahs. This approach helps you develop the ability to instantly recognize characters by their unique sound patterns.

3

Enjoy Learning

You'll learn best when you're in the "learning zone" - where you're missing letters. If you are missing about 30-50% of characters, you are in the "learning zone". Don't worry about perfection; this slight challenge is where the most effective learning happens. Celebrate your progress along the way!

4

Practice Sending

Most people find sending easier than receiving. Use tools like CW Checker, VBand, or the Morse-It App to practice. These tools can decode your sending, providing immediate feedback to help you improve.

5

Get on the Air

Once you know most letters and basic punctuation, start making real contacts! Use QSO Finder to discover active people looking for a contact. Parks on the Air (POTA) and Summits on the Air (SOTA) also offer fantastic opportunities for beginners. The thrill of real-world communication will accelerate your learning.

Morse Mania App

Great app that turns learning Morse code characters into a fun game! Perfect for beginners to master the basics.

Download

Morse Code World

Web-based platform for practicing and improving your skills.

Visit Site

Sending Practice

Try VBand to connect a key to your computer for practice.

Learn More

Getting Licensed

To legally transmit on amateur radio frequencies, you'll need an FCC license. The good news is that getting licensed is easier than you might think!

There are three license classes (Technician, General, and Extra), but you only need the Technician license to get started with Morse code on certain bands.

1

Study

Use resources like Ham Radio Prep or HamStudy to prepare for the exam.

2

Practice

Take practice tests until you're consistently scoring above 80%.

3

Test

Find an exam session near you or take an online exam.

Ready to get started with your licensing journey?

Find Exam Sessions
Person studying for their ham radio license

Getting On The Air

As soon as you (mostly) know your letters and have your license, you're ready to get on the air! Don't wait until you feel "ready"—there's no such thing as perfect, and the best way to improve is by making real contacts.

"You don't get good to get on the air, you get on the air to get good."

One of the best ways to get started is through Parks on the Air (POTA). The exchange is simple, and the community is incredibly welcoming to newcomers. All you need to know is your call sign to make your first POTA contact.

Check out our video below for a quick introduction to using Morse code with POTA:

Help & Resources

Join our community of Morse code enthusiasts and access valuable resources to support your journey.

Join Our Community

Connect with fellow learners and experienced operators in our Discord server. It's free and open to everyone interested in Morse code!

Join Discord

Featured Clubs & Organizations

CW Innovations

10-week course focusing on Instant Character Recognition (ICR). Learn how to learn CW with a foundation on ICR. Free with donations accepted.

Learn More

Straight Key Century Club

A long standing, very active group dedicated to mechanical-key Morse code operation using straight keys and bugs. Free membership.

Join SKCC

CW Academy

Offered by CWops, this program provides structured learning at multiple skill levels, three times a year.

View Program

Long Island CW Club

Offers over 100 live Zoom classes weekly for all skill levels, with a focus on community and inclusivity.

Join Club

Practice Tools

Morse Code Ninja

Extensive practice materials including over 10,000 hours of content to improve your Morse code proficiency.

Visit Site

QSO Finder

Discover people on the air for Morse code conversations (QSOs). Find active stations and make contacts.

Find QSOs

VBand

Practice copying Morse code with variable speed and text sources. Great for improving your copying skills at your own pace.

Try VBand

CW Checker

Check your CW timing and measure CW bug timing using your VBand adapter. Essential for precise sending practice.

Check Timing

CW Bot

Practice your CW with an AI virtual operator. Great for practicing QSOs and improving your conversational skills.

Chat with Bot

Morse Invaders

Practice your sending with a Morse code space invader themed game. Fun way to improve your sending accuracy and speed.

Play Game

Morse Walker

Practice POTA activations and copying callsigns. Simulates real-world portable operations with various scenarios.

Start Walking
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