Vinnie S. wrote:
I have about half the alphabet down at 5 WPM. But I don't think I am going to
have enough time. Test is next Sat. I think I need more practice.

Vinnie S.

There is no substitute for being prepared, but take the test anyway.

Years ago, the only way to pass the CW tests was to have one full
minute of solid copy on your copy sheet. Now, you can pass the CW
test two ways. If you have one full minute of solid copy, your done.
However if you don't, you can take the 10 question test. You may have
copied enough characters to guess at the answers. The process of
elimination will help you on many of them. Get a copy of Morse
Academy, if you don't already have it. The built in sample tests
are exactly the same as the real test. If I remember correctly, you
only have to get 7 out of 10 to pass. The odds are in your favor.

I have seen people pass the 13 and 20 WPM tests with only a smattering
of characters on their copy sheet. For me, The key was to be able to
copy a little bit faster than the required speed. That way I was
comfortable with the testing speed. Some people come by CW naturally,
but for me, it took a long time to get to the needed speeds. But
then, no one has to worry about the 13 and 20 WPM tests any more.

Just try to be calm and realize that it's not the end of the world
if you fail. Get the certificates for the tests you do pass and
go back the next testing session. Some testing stations will even
let you try again, after a short rest to collect your thoughts.

And don't discount using CW, when you finally get your license. It's
a fun mode to use, just like any other mode. The more you use it,
the better you get at it, and the more fun you have. And that's what
it's all about, having fun.

--
Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM
http://www.k7mem.com
(remove _nospam_ from my email to reply)

On Fri, 04 Mar 2005 06:52:49 -0700, K7MEM wrote:


Years ago, the only way to pass the CW tests was to have one full
minute of solid copy on your copy sheet. Now, you can pass the CW
test two ways. If you have one full minute of solid copy, your done.
However if you don't, you can take the 10 question test. You may have
copied enough characters to guess at the answers. The process of
elimination will help you on many of them. Get a copy of Morse
Academy, if you don't already have it. The built in sample tests
are exactly the same as the real test. If I remember correctly, you
only have to get 7 out of 10 to pass. The odds are in your favor.

I have seen people pass the 13 and 20 WPM tests with only a smattering
of characters on their copy sheet. For me, The key was to be able to
copy a little bit faster than the required speed. That way I was
comfortable with the testing speed. Some people come by CW naturally,
but for me, it took a long time to get to the needed speeds. But
then, no one has to worry about the 13 and 20 WPM tests any more.

Just try to be calm and realize that it's not the end of the world
if you fail. Get the certificates for the tests you do pass and
go back the next testing session. Some testing stations will even
let you try again, after a short rest to collect your thoughts.

And don't discount using CW, when you finally get your license. It's
a fun mode to use, just like any other mode. The more you use it,
the better you get at it, and the more fun you have. And that's what
it's all about, having fun.


I am using morse academy. I have passed the practice tests for tech, no problem.
The General, I got 19 out of 35, without once even looking at a book. If I could
somehow pass morse and get 7 more correct answers in general. Otherwise, I will
just wait. Thanks !

Vinnie S.

Vinnie from one who has taught Morse code to many students:

FOR MANY -- studying EVERY day for 15 to 30 minutes is successful. Leaving
long periods between study sessions is usually counter-productive. Studying
for long periods at a session - frazzles many a brain.

Most people's problems with the code stem from trying to learn it too fast
without sufficient drilling before they move on to each new letter. The
average person needs about 30 hours of study and practice on the code to hit
5 wpm. Now this is an average. Some will take longer and some will take
less." So a half hour in the morning, a half hour in the evening and in a
month -- you should have it.

Good Luck and kudos on your dedication -- it will be worth while.


--
Lamont Cranston



"Vinnie S." wrote in message
...
On Fri, 04 Mar 2005 06:52:49 -0700, K7MEM
wrote:


I am using morse academy. I have passed the practice tests for tech, no
problem.
The General, I got 19 out of 35, without once even looking at a book. If I
could
somehow pass morse and get 7 more correct answers in general. Otherwise, I
will
just wait. Thanks !

Vinnie S.

I took a little bit different approach. First of all, I learned the letters
A to Z and 1 through 0. Next, I had a computer generate the letters from A
to Z and 1 through 0 at 20, 25, and 30WPM. After about 3 minutes at each
speed, I had the computer generate random characters at 25WPM. I eliminated
one step of the learning process by not trying to write the characters down;
this allowed my brain to have the sounds imprinted in me.
After this, I took the advice of a 30WPM fellow...........as I would be
driving down the highway, I would pronounce the names of the different road
signs in Morse Code. I would only do this by myself, so that somebody
wouldn't have me carted off to some unpleasant place!
Anyway, two weeks later, I took my 5WPM test and passed it. Five weeks after
that, I took my 13WPM test. After using this learning technique, the 13WPM
test sounded like it was going in slow motion............my copy speed was
more in the 18WPM range, but not quite 20WPM. Give this technique a try and
you will be amazed at the results. Good luck!

Pete

I took my 5WPM test two weeks later............5 weeks after that, I passed
my 13WPM test for the General class license.
"Señor Sombra" wrote in message
news:nW_Vd.43987$xt.16268@fed1read07...
Vinnie from one who has taught Morse code to many students:

FOR MANY -- studying EVERY day for 15 to 30 minutes is successful. Leaving
long periods between study sessions is usually counter-productive.
Studying for long periods at a session - frazzles many a brain.

Most people's problems with the code stem from trying to learn it too fast
without sufficient drilling before they move on to each new letter. The
average person needs about 30 hours of study and practice on the code to
hit 5 wpm. Now this is an average. Some will take longer and some will
take less." So a half hour in the morning, a half hour in the evening and
in a month -- you should have it.

Good Luck and kudos on your dedication -- it will be worth while.


--
Lamont Cranston



"Vinnie S." wrote in message
...
On Fri, 04 Mar 2005 06:52:49 -0700, K7MEM
wrote:


I am using morse academy. I have passed the practice tests for tech, no
problem.
The General, I got 19 out of 35, without once even looking at a book. If
I could
somehow pass morse and get 7 more correct answers in general. Otherwise,
I will
just wait. Thanks !

Vinnie S.

Like Pete, I suggest similar... DO road signs, hell... do the shampoo bottle
label, ingredients and all - in code - as taking a shower. I do not suggest
any more than 15 minutes a day, it can drive you bonkers or bore you - which
ever out look you take. Read a magazine in "code". You'll be humming right
along before you know it.
cl

"Pete KE9OA" wrote in message
...
I took a little bit different approach. First of all, I learned the letters
A to Z and 1 through 0. Next, I had a computer generate the letters from A
to Z and 1 through 0 at 20, 25, and 30WPM. After about 3 minutes at each
speed, I had the computer generate random characters at 25WPM. I eliminated
one step of the learning process by not trying to write the characters
down; this allowed my brain to have the sounds imprinted in me.
After this, I took the advice of a 30WPM fellow...........as I would be
driving down the highway, I would pronounce the names of the different
road signs in Morse Code. I would only do this by myself, so that somebody
wouldn't have me carted off to some unpleasant place!
Anyway, two weeks later, I took my 5WPM test and passed it. Five weeks
after that, I took my 13WPM test. After using this learning technique, the
13WPM test sounded like it was going in slow motion............my copy
speed was more in the 18WPM range, but not quite 20WPM. Give this
technique a try and you will be amazed at the results. Good luck!

Pete

I took my 5WPM test two weeks later............5 weeks after that, I
passed my 13WPM test for the General class license.
"Señor Sombra" wrote in message
news:nW_Vd.43987$xt.16268@fed1read07...
Vinnie from one who has taught Morse code to many students:

FOR MANY -- studying EVERY day for 15 to 30 minutes is successful.
Leaving long periods between study sessions is usually
counter-productive. Studying for long periods at a session - frazzles
many a brain.

Most people's problems with the code stem from trying to learn it too
fast without sufficient drilling before they move on to each new letter.
The average person needs about 30 hours of study and practice on the code
to hit 5 wpm. Now this is an average. Some will take longer and some
will take less." So a half hour in the morning, a half hour in the
evening and in a month -- you should have it.

Good Luck and kudos on your dedication -- it will be worth while.


--
Lamont Cranston



"Vinnie S." wrote in message
...
On Fri, 04 Mar 2005 06:52:49 -0700, K7MEM
wrote:


I am using morse academy. I have passed the practice tests for tech, no
problem.
The General, I got 19 out of 35, without once even looking at a book. If
I could
somehow pass morse and get 7 more correct answers in general. Otherwise,
I will
just wait. Thanks !

Vinnie S.

Vinnie S. wrote:
The General, I got 19 out of 35, without once even
looking at a book.

cb/freebander attitude; "i won't make any effort to study, i want it
handed to me"

"K7MEM" wrote in message
...
Vinnie S. wrote:
I have about half the alphabet down at 5 WPM. But I don't think I am
going to
have enough time. Test is next Sat. I think I need more practice. Vinnie
S.

There is no substitute for being prepared, but take the test anyway.

Years ago, the only way to pass the CW tests was to have one full
minute of solid copy on your copy sheet. Now, you can pass the CW
test two ways. If you have one full minute of solid copy, your done.
However if you don't, you can take the 10 question test. You may have
copied enough characters to guess at the answers. The process of
elimination will help you on many of them. Get a copy of Morse
Academy, if you don't already have it. The built in sample tests
are exactly the same as the real test. If I remember correctly, you
only have to get 7 out of 10 to pass. The odds are in your favor.

I have seen people pass the 13 and 20 WPM tests with only a smattering
of characters on their copy sheet. For me, The key was to be able to
copy a little bit faster than the required speed. That way I was
comfortable with the testing speed. Some people come by CW naturally,
but for me, it took a long time to get to the needed speeds. But
then, no one has to worry about the 13 and 20 WPM tests any more.

Just try to be calm and realize that it's not the end of the world
if you fail. Get the certificates for the tests you do pass and
go back the next testing session. Some testing stations will even
let you try again, after a short rest to collect your thoughts.

And don't discount using CW, when you finally get your license. It's
a fun mode to use, just like any other mode. The more you use it,
the better you get at it, and the more fun you have. And that's what
it's all about, having fun.

--
Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM
http://www.k7mem.com
(remove _nospam_ from my email to reply)

That may not work anymore. Used to be, the 10 questions were usually
"multiple choice". If you had enough letters or characters to take a good
stab at the answer, yes, you could conceivably pass. BUT.... I was told that
the VE systems, at least W5YI (who I go through) - changed their system to
require "fill in the blanks" - no more multiple choice. That means if there
was an error sent on purpose of say "antena" and you were to assume - having
not copied the whole word in code, that it was "antenna" - and you wrote
"antenna" on the blank - you failed that question. You're supposed to copy
the message AS IT IS SENT. NO ERRORS. If they send all words correctly, you
best have all words you need to write down - spelled correctly. IF they have
a misspelled word, you better have it too. If the word starts with a C and
you assumed wrong and wrote another character down, let's face it, you're
not going to answer a particular question correctly, if that word has to do
with it. Then too, with our wacky English language, you could have To, Two,
Too...... just as an example. While the words to and too may not be on the
test as an answer, the word Two - could be as in Two Feet, Two Meters, or
any other applicable combination. It all depends. If they use standard run
of mill tests, he may never see that. IF "THEY" make up their own exams, as
they are allowed to do, Lord only knows what may be in there. A misspelling
of the word or an assumption could be costly. He could catch the first and
last letter and "assume" the middle, not knowing for sure what it was. He
could miss the word previous or after and not see that it should have been
TWO in relation to something of height or so on. All presumptions of course,
but possibilities.

He could still take a stab at the exam. With 1/2 the code, he stands a small
chance of passing, but preparation IS the best answer. I've seen people fail
for making the stupidest of errors even with knowledge. Being unprepared and
nervous sure won't help. Whatever the case....... Good luck!

One more notch. Our team had a guy sit in for 20 WPM. He "claimed" he could
copy it, but he had some sort of medical disorder as well - which he brought
no medical proof of for us to give him special testing - which we would have
been allowed to do. He took the exam. When done, neither he nor us could
make out his copy - to start with. He also failed the written for the same
reason. He couldn't read his own writing. Talking to the guy, he was pretty
well versed in ham and so on. Was he prepared? I don't know. But even if he
was, his dictation shot him down. It's all in the copy on paper. We can't
read what you caught in your head.

cl

cl wrote:
"K7MEM" wrote in message
...

Vinnie S. wrote:

I have about half the alphabet down at 5 WPM. But I don't think I am
going to
have enough time. Test is next Sat. I think I need more practice. Vinnie
S.

There is no substitute for being prepared, but take the test anyway.

Years ago, the only way to pass the CW tests was to have one full
minute of solid copy on your copy sheet. Now, you can pass the CW
test two ways. If you have one full minute of solid copy, your done.
However if you don't, you can take the 10 question test. You may have
copied enough characters to guess at the answers. The process of
elimination will help you on many of them. Get a copy of Morse
Academy, if you don't already have it. The built in sample tests
are exactly the same as the real test. If I remember correctly, you
only have to get 7 out of 10 to pass. The odds are in your favor.

I have seen people pass the 13 and 20 WPM tests with only a smattering
of characters on their copy sheet. For me, The key was to be able to
copy a little bit faster than the required speed. That way I was
comfortable with the testing speed. Some people come by CW naturally,
but for me, it took a long time to get to the needed speeds. But
then, no one has to worry about the 13 and 20 WPM tests any more.

Just try to be calm and realize that it's not the end of the world
if you fail. Get the certificates for the tests you do pass and
go back the next testing session. Some testing stations will even
let you try again, after a short rest to collect your thoughts.

And don't discount using CW, when you finally get your license. It's
a fun mode to use, just like any other mode. The more you use it,
the better you get at it, and the more fun you have. And that's what
it's all about, having fun.

--
Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM
http://www.k7mem.com
(remove _nospam_ from my email to reply)


That may not work anymore. Used to be, the 10 questions were usually
"multiple choice". If you had enough letters or characters to take a good
stab at the answer, yes, you could conceivably pass. BUT.... I was told that
the VE systems, at least W5YI (who I go through) - changed their system to
require "fill in the blanks" - no more multiple choice. That means if there
was an error sent on purpose of say "antena" and you were to assume - having
not copied the whole word in code, that it was "antenna" - and you wrote
"antenna" on the blank - you failed that question. You're supposed to copy
the message AS IT IS SENT. NO ERRORS. If they send all words correctly, you
best have all words you need to write down - spelled correctly. IF they have
a misspelled word, you better have it too. If the word starts with a C and
you assumed wrong and wrote another character down, let's face it, you're
not going to answer a particular question correctly, if that word has to do
with it. Then too, with our wacky English language, you could have To, Two,
Too...... just as an example. While the words to and too may not be on the
test as an answer, the word Two - could be as in Two Feet, Two Meters, or
any other applicable combination. It all depends. If they use standard run
of mill tests, he may never see that. IF "THEY" make up their own exams, as
they are allowed to do, Lord only knows what may be in there. A misspelling
of the word or an assumption could be costly. He could catch the first and
last letter and "assume" the middle, not knowing for sure what it was. He
could miss the word previous or after and not see that it should have been
TWO in relation to something of height or so on. All presumptions of course,
but possibilities.

He could still take a stab at the exam. With 1/2 the code, he stands a small
chance of passing, but preparation IS the best answer. I've seen people fail
for making the stupidest of errors even with knowledge. Being unprepared and
nervous sure won't help. Whatever the case....... Good luck!

One more notch. Our team had a guy sit in for 20 WPM. He "claimed" he could
copy it, but he had some sort of medical disorder as well - which he brought
no medical proof of for us to give him special testing - which we would have
been allowed to do. He took the exam. When done, neither he nor us could
make out his copy - to start with. He also failed the written for the same
reason. He couldn't read his own writing. Talking to the guy, he was pretty
well versed in ham and so on. Was he prepared? I don't know. But even if he
was, his dictation shot him down. It's all in the copy on paper. We can't
read what you caught in your head.

cl


Like I said at the start "There is no substitute for being prepared".

They may have changed the tests since I took mine, but the VE stations have
a lot of leway in creating their tests. The only way to know for sure is to
ask. Each time I went it only cost $6.45 and I could take as many test as
I wanted, each time. So I did. I took the Tech, General, and 13 WPM in one
sitting and the Advanced, Extra, and the 20 WPM in another.

As far as stories, there are just as many testers crash and burn as there
are ones that pass. Maybe more. But as I already said, it's not the end
of the world. I used Morse Academy to create a group of tests on tape.
Then I would listen two or three times a day for 15 minutes. That's all
it took for me. There is not any need to check your work. When you copy
well, you know it. When I hit 85% - 90% I would generate new ones that
were faster. Of course, it did take me several months.

--
Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM
http://www.k7mem.com
(remove _nospam_ from my email to reply)

"K7MEM" wrote in message
...
cl wrote:
"K7MEM" wrote in message
...

Vinnie S. wrote:

I have about half the alphabet down at 5 WPM. But I don't think I am
going to
have enough time. Test is next Sat. I think I need more practice. Vinnie
S.

There is no substitute for being prepared, but take the test anyway.

Years ago, the only way to pass the CW tests was to have one full
minute of solid copy on your copy sheet. Now, you can pass the CW
test two ways. If you have one full minute of solid copy, your done.
However if you don't, you can take the 10 question test. You may have
copied enough characters to guess at the answers. The process of
elimination will help you on many of them. Get a copy of Morse
Academy, if you don't already have it. The built in sample tests
are exactly the same as the real test. If I remember correctly, you
only have to get 7 out of 10 to pass. The odds are in your favor.

I have seen people pass the 13 and 20 WPM tests with only a smattering
of characters on their copy sheet. For me, The key was to be able to
copy a little bit faster than the required speed. That way I was
comfortable with the testing speed. Some people come by CW naturally,
but for me, it took a long time to get to the needed speeds. But
then, no one has to worry about the 13 and 20 WPM tests any more.

Just try to be calm and realize that it's not the end of the world
if you fail. Get the certificates for the tests you do pass and
go back the next testing session. Some testing stations will even
let you try again, after a short rest to collect your thoughts.

And don't discount using CW, when you finally get your license. It's
a fun mode to use, just like any other mode. The more you use it,
the better you get at it, and the more fun you have. And that's what
it's all about, having fun.

--
Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM
http://www.k7mem.com
(remove _nospam_ from my email to reply)


That may not work anymore. Used to be, the 10 questions were usually
"multiple choice". If you had enough letters or characters to take a good
stab at the answer, yes, you could conceivably pass. BUT.... I was told
that the VE systems, at least W5YI (who I go through) - changed their
system to require "fill in the blanks" - no more multiple choice. That
means if there was an error sent on purpose of say "antena" and you were
to assume - having not copied the whole word in code, that it was
"antenna" - and you wrote "antenna" on the blank - you failed that
question. You're supposed to copy the message AS IT IS SENT. NO ERRORS.
If they send all words correctly, you best have all words you need to
write down - spelled correctly. IF they have a misspelled word, you
better have it too. If the word starts with a C and you assumed wrong and
wrote another character down, let's face it, you're not going to answer a
particular question correctly, if that word has to do with it. Then too,
with our wacky English language, you could have To, Two, Too...... just
as an example. While the words to and too may not be on the test as an
answer, the word Two - could be as in Two Feet, Two Meters, or any other
applicable combination. It all depends. If they use standard run of mill
tests, he may never see that. IF "THEY" make up their own exams, as they
are allowed to do, Lord only knows what may be in there. A misspelling of
the word or an assumption could be costly. He could catch the first and
last letter and "assume" the middle, not knowing for sure what it was. He
could miss the word previous or after and not see that it should have
been TWO in relation to something of height or so on. All presumptions of
course, but possibilities.

He could still take a stab at the exam. With 1/2 the code, he stands a
small chance of passing, but preparation IS the best answer. I've seen
people fail for making the stupidest of errors even with knowledge. Being
unprepared and nervous sure won't help. Whatever the case....... Good
luck!

One more notch. Our team had a guy sit in for 20 WPM. He "claimed" he
could copy it, but he had some sort of medical disorder as well - which
he brought no medical proof of for us to give him special testing - which
we would have been allowed to do. He took the exam. When done, neither he
nor us could make out his copy - to start with. He also failed the
written for the same reason. He couldn't read his own writing. Talking to
the guy, he was pretty well versed in ham and so on. Was he prepared? I
don't know. But even if he was, his dictation shot him down. It's all in
the copy on paper. We can't read what you caught in your head.

cl


Like I said at the start "There is no substitute for being prepared".

They may have changed the tests since I took mine, but the VE stations
have
a lot of leway in creating their tests. The only way to know for sure is
to
ask. Each time I went it only cost $6.45 and I could take as many test as
I wanted, each time. So I did. I took the Tech, General, and 13 WPM in one
sitting and the Advanced, Extra, and the 20 WPM in another.

As far as stories, there are just as many testers crash and burn as there
are ones that pass. Maybe more. But as I already said, it's not the end
of the world. I used Morse Academy to create a group of tests on tape.
Then I would listen two or three times a day for 15 minutes. That's all
it took for me. There is not any need to check your work. When you copy
well, you know it. When I hit 85% - 90% I would generate new ones that
were faster. Of course, it did take me several months.

--
Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM
http://www.k7mem.com
(remove _nospam_ from my email to reply)

Yes, "we" (I am an examiner) do have a lot of leeway as you say... but the
tests must still conform to the FCC/VEC's standards. Again - the code must
be error free for the minute copied OR the "fill in the blank" answers. What
we use as text, is up to us, as long as it is in the prescribed length,
timing (5 wpm), and a mixture of alphabet, numerical characters, Q signals,
etc. IF they have a handicap documented (preferably before hand), we can
accommodate them with regard to that handicap and break up the code test to
letters, numbers, words at a time, sentence at a time, etc. if need be. We
can use lights, vibrations, code keys and oscillators, etc. Though the
applicant may have to provide any special needs in equipment. The VEs are
not liable for providing special needs testing equipment or facilities.

Yes, there is nothing like preparation. It is quite amazing to see people
testing, those who have studied and those who haven't. Usually, you can
tell - just by looking around the room as they test. You can also pick out
by pre-test and post test talk - if they've studied, even if they don't
outright admit it.

cl

cl wrote:
"K7MEM" wrote in message
...

cl wrote:

"K7MEM" wrote in message
...


Vinnie S. wrote:


I have about half the alphabet down at 5 WPM. But I don't think I am
going to
have enough time. Test is next Sat. I think I need more practice. Vinnie
S.

There is no substitute for being prepared, but take the test anyway.

Years ago, the only way to pass the CW tests was to have one full
minute of solid copy on your copy sheet. Now, you can pass the CW
test two ways. If you have one full minute of solid copy, your done.
However if you don't, you can take the 10 question test. You may have
copied enough characters to guess at the answers. The process of
elimination will help you on many of them. Get a copy of Morse
Academy, if you don't already have it. The built in sample tests
are exactly the same as the real test. If I remember correctly, you
only have to get 7 out of 10 to pass. The odds are in your favor.

I have seen people pass the 13 and 20 WPM tests with only a smattering
of characters on their copy sheet. For me, The key was to be able to
copy a little bit faster than the required speed. That way I was
comfortable with the testing speed. Some people come by CW naturally,
but for me, it took a long time to get to the needed speeds. But
then, no one has to worry about the 13 and 20 WPM tests any more.

Just try to be calm and realize that it's not the end of the world
if you fail. Get the certificates for the tests you do pass and
go back the next testing session. Some testing stations will even
let you try again, after a short rest to collect your thoughts.

And don't discount using CW, when you finally get your license. It's
a fun mode to use, just like any other mode. The more you use it,
the better you get at it, and the more fun you have. And that's what
it's all about, having fun.

--
Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM
http://www.k7mem.com
(remove _nospam_ from my email to reply)


That may not work anymore. Used to be, the 10 questions were usually
"multiple choice". If you had enough letters or characters to take a good
stab at the answer, yes, you could conceivably pass. BUT.... I was told
that the VE systems, at least W5YI (who I go through) - changed their
system to require "fill in the blanks" - no more multiple choice. That
means if there was an error sent on purpose of say "antena" and you were
to assume - having not copied the whole word in code, that it was
"antenna" - and you wrote "antenna" on the blank - you failed that
question. You're supposed to copy the message AS IT IS SENT. NO ERRORS.
If they send all words correctly, you best have all words you need to
write down - spelled correctly. IF they have a misspelled word, you
better have it too. If the word starts with a C and you assumed wrong and
wrote another character down, let's face it, you're not going to answer a
particular question correctly, if that word has to do with it. Then too,
with our wacky English language, you could have To, Two, Too...... just
as an example. While the words to and too may not be on the test as an
answer, the word Two - could be as in Two Feet, Two Meters, or any other
applicable combination. It all depends. If they use standard run of mill
tests, he may never see that. IF "THEY" make up their own exams, as they
are allowed to do, Lord only knows what may be in there. A misspelling of
the word or an assumption could be costly. He could catch the first and
last letter and "assume" the middle, not knowing for sure what it was. He
could miss the word previous or after and not see that it should have
been TWO in relation to something of height or so on. All presumptions of
course, but possibilities.

He could still take a stab at the exam. With 1/2 the code, he stands a
small chance of passing, but preparation IS the best answer. I've seen
people fail for making the stupidest of errors even with knowledge. Being
unprepared and nervous sure won't help. Whatever the case....... Good
luck!

One more notch. Our team had a guy sit in for 20 WPM. He "claimed" he
could copy it, but he had some sort of medical disorder as well - which
he brought no medical proof of for us to give him special testing - which
we would have been allowed to do. He took the exam. When done, neither he
nor us could make out his copy - to start with. He also failed the
written for the same reason. He couldn't read his own writing. Talking to
the guy, he was pretty well versed in ham and so on. Was he prepared? I
don't know. But even if he was, his dictation shot him down. It's all in
the copy on paper. We can't read what you caught in your head.

cl


Like I said at the start "There is no substitute for being prepared".

They may have changed the tests since I took mine, but the VE stations
have
a lot of leway in creating their tests. The only way to know for sure is
to
ask. Each time I went it only cost $6.45 and I could take as many test as
I wanted, each time. So I did. I took the Tech, General, and 13 WPM in one
sitting and the Advanced, Extra, and the 20 WPM in another.

As far as stories, there are just as many testers crash and burn as there
are ones that pass. Maybe more. But as I already said, it's not the end
of the world. I used Morse Academy to create a group of tests on tape.
Then I would listen two or three times a day for 15 minutes. That's all
it took for me. There is not any need to check your work. When you copy
well, you know it. When I hit 85% - 90% I would generate new ones that
were faster. Of course, it did take me several months.

--
Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM
http://www.k7mem.com
(remove _nospam_ from my email to reply)


Yes, "we" (I am an examiner) do have a lot of leeway as you say... but the
tests must still conform to the FCC/VEC's standards. Again - the code must
be error free for the minute copied OR the "fill in the blank" answers. What
we use as text, is up to us, as long as it is in the prescribed length,
timing (5 wpm), and a mixture of alphabet, numerical characters, Q signals,
etc. IF they have a handicap documented (preferably before hand), we can
accommodate them with regard to that handicap and break up the code test to
letters, numbers, words at a time, sentence at a time, etc. if need be. We
can use lights, vibrations, code keys and oscillators, etc. Though the
applicant may have to provide any special needs in equipment. The VEs are
not liable for providing special needs testing equipment or facilities.

Yes, there is nothing like preparation. It is quite amazing to see people
testing, those who have studied and those who haven't. Usually, you can
tell - just by looking around the room as they test. You can also pick out
by pre-test and post test talk - if they've studied, even if they don't
outright admit it.

cl

I'm just curious why they went back to exact copy, instead of leaving it
as multiple-choice, on the 10 question test. The CW test will probably go
away anyway, so I guess it really doesn't matter.

Thanks for the info.

--
Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM
http://www.k7mem.com
(remove _nospam_ from my email to reply)