Learning Morse Code Instant Character Recognition (ICR)

Learning Morse code is one thing, but learning to copy comfortably — hearing whole words instead of individual characters — is something else entirely. WØFN has tips on upping your skill level by learning “sound shapes” to make CW QSOs a pleasure.

TOM WEAVER

Instant Character Recognition requires knowing your Morse code ABC’s. That’s all. Morse code comprehension isn’t complicated, but it does takes time, diligence, and study. By comprehension, I mean listening to Morse code, not writing letter-by-letter, then reading it later to see what was said. Have someone quickly spell a common 4- or 5-letter word out loud to you. Like HELLO or GREEN. Did you recognize each letter? Did you “get” the word? Was it difficult? Probably not. You’ve experienced Instant Character Recognition and “word building” because you already have ICR with the spoken alphabet. Did understanding a spelled word require a special technique? Nope —all it took was knowing your ABC’s and a little spelling. When Morse code sounds are synonymous with their spoken letter sounds, you’ve achieved ICR. However,…

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CQ Amateur Radio (Digital) - 1 Issue, March 2023

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