Morse code is a system of communication developed by Samuel F.B. Morse that uses a series of dots and dashes to relay coded messages. Though it was originally devised as a way of communicating over telegraph lines, Morse code is still used today by amateur radio enthusiasts and is also useful for sending urgent distress signals in emergency situations.
While learning Morse code isn't particularly difficult, it does require study and dedication like any other language. Once you've learned the meaning of the basic signals, you can begin writing and translating messages of your own.
Morse code consists of just two elements:
Dit (•)
Dah (-)
These two signals, in different combinations, can represent letters, numbers, and special characters.
Here is the complete International Morse Code alphabet. Learning these patterns is the first step to mastering Morse code.
Learn this signal first - it could save your life in an emergency!
Morse code is comprised of two different signal units — dots (•) and dashes (-). Your first objective will be learning to recognize these units as they appear in text and sound.
Practice saying dits and dahs aloud in the correct rhythm:
It is generally faster to learn Morse code by sound rather than sight since it allows you to forego the process of counting up dits and dahs.
Word association can be a valuable tool in helping you keep track of letters and numerals in Morse code. For instance, you could link:
Devise your own word associations that will help link sequences of signals with their related sounds naturally in your mind.
The simplest letters to begin with are the ones represented by a single dit or dah:
Solidify your knowledge of elementary characters before putting together more complex sequences.
Set goals for yourself and track your progress. Aim to learn a certain number of characters each week.
Look up recordings of Morse code messages that will give you a sense of how communication is carried out using the system. Pay attention to the pauses between each character as well as the characters themselves.
Children's storybooks are full of terse, simple language that are perfect for practicing Morse code as a beginner. Go through the books page-by-page, translating the brief sentences into code.
End a study session by copying out a few important words and phrases, then jumble them up and translate them at the beginning of the next session.
If you know someone else who is making an effort to learn Morse code, the two of you can improve your skills together.
Nowadays, there are apps like Morse-It and Dah Dit available that can give you the chance to study. These apps combine visual recognition and audio recording for an integrated learning experience.
Many amateur radio operator clubs hold courses on Morse code. In a traditional classroom setting, you'll have the benefit of organized lesson plans and one-on-one instruction.
If you can't find any classes in your area, another option is to study a set of guided practice tapes. Follow along with the recordings at your own speed and complete the included exercises and activities.
Type any text below to see it converted to Morse code:
Enter Morse code below to see it converted to text. Use dots (.) for dits and dashes (-) for dahs. Separate letters with spaces and words with forward slashes (/).
Test your Morse code listening skills. Click 'Play Random Character' to hear a random letter or number in Morse code.
Try to guess what character it is, then check your answer:
Test your knowledge of Morse code by identifying the character that matches each code: