Morse Code - What Are Its Benefits and How Do I Learn It?

Having been used for centuries, Morse code is one of the well-known methods of communication among humans. It is easy to use, quick to learn, and does the job, especially in relevant events where communication is key to survival.

Morse code is a set of sound or visual cues characterized by short and long pauses that equate to specific letters in the English alphabet. In its written form, morse code can be identified through short dashes and dots. Without using any specialized equipment, Morse code is the fastest way to transmit messages in situations that require it.

Benefits of Learning Morse Code

Out of all the available communication methods in the modern world, it is still worth learning this centuries-old way to communicate. It’s a great precaution when should disaster strike and modern communication methods fail temporarily. Relying on modern technology can still be a risk, and learning another way to communicate is a great risk-reducing action.

To this day, people working in ships and aircraft still use Morse code to communicate. Aside from that, learning to use Morse code is a great way to aid people experiencing serious mobility and speech limitations. But if you’re someone who has a lot of free time, learning it can also be some of the things you can do when you’re bored.

How To Learn Morse Code

Your first question might be how to learn it. There are two ways: the first one is to take traditional classes, and the other is through self-learning. The two methods can have varied paces depending on the person studying them. Some people are great at learning new things when someone else is teaching them. Others can rely solely on themselves and still do a great job.

Attend a Morse class

Taking classes is a more traditional way to learn Morse code. It follows the same routine of going to classes and learning with a few other people. Attending a class is a great way to learn because you can immediately ask questions if ever you feel lost or curious about one thing. The American Radio Relay League can give you suggestions on finding a local club that teaches Morse code.

Each student will be given their code practice oscillator with volume control and a built-in key for practice during classes. From there, the instructor will train the students to distinguish a short dot called a dit. From there, it progresses into distinguishing dashes and finally understanding messages.

However, Morse classes require a lot of time since it’s usually two classes per week. But then again, if you’re someone who learns something quickly in a classroom setting, then the old-fashioned way is the best route to take.

Self-learning

Learning a new skill on your own can be frightening. But what’s great about learning on your own is that you can choose when to do it and how to do it. We all have different ways to learn things—and that’s perfectly fine.

Many experts claim they can learn Morse code in a minute. The website suggests a learning method of training yourself to “follow a logical path to the correct letters.” Some just memorize the dots and dashes. Others treat it like a game to make the process even more fun.

Conclusion

Whatever learning route you take, it’s all up to you and your willingness to learn Morse code. You may have reasons for learning the craft, but it depends on your determination and perseverance to gain a new skill.

Learning Morse code isn’t difficult. As with other skills, it can be a great way to keep our minds healthy and active. If there are other skills you want to learn in your downtime, explore Bored A Lot’s blog for more knowledge.