|
Morse is tough
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. |
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. Don't it suck that the rest of the world takes the provisions of WRC'03 to hand quickly, while our own country takes it's good old time, while blessing BPL. Something that all the other countries have said "no" to. This from the country that drives on a parkway and parks on a driveway! |
On Thu, 03 Mar 2005 02:14:36 -0500, Scott 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. Don't it suck that the rest of the world takes the provisions of WRC'03 to hand quickly, while our own country takes it's good old time, while blessing BPL. Something that all the other countries have said "no" to. This from the country that drives on a parkway and parks on a driveway! It's doesn't matter to me. I won't use it, and have no interest in it. You can learn it fairly easily at 5 wpm. Just not in the time I have to pass the test. I probablt need closer to a month of practice. I have only had about 1 solid week. What they should do is make it optional for code people, and give a real test. Then you can only transmit code if you take the test. But I don't want to wait that long. Vinnie S. |
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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. |
"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 |
What they should do is make it optional for code people, and give a real test.
Then you can only transmit code if you take the test. But I don't want to wait that long. CW should have it's own bandspace, not invaded by other weak signal modes. It shouldn't be forced on us to use HF, but I don't see it going away. To those that want to pound brass, more power to 'ya! |
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 |
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" |
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) |
Someone wrote 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. In our area the VE's test as follows: Following your listening to the QSO, we will check your copy looking for a string of 25 characters in a row without error. If you have copied 25 characters in a row without error, you pass. Each letter in the text counts as one (1) character, numbers, punctuation and prosigns count as two. If you have the appropriate number of characters in a row correct, you pass the code test. If not, you will be provided with an answer sheet with ten questions about the QSO you just copied. If you answer seven (7) or more correctly, you pass. Thus you have two chances to pass the test. The issue of dropping the code test is before the FCC, estimates are no action until mid year -- if then. -- Lamont Cranston |
"K7MEM" wrote in message ... 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) "That" - you would have to ask the powers that be who control it..... I just follow the procedures as set forth. cl |
K7ME
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. Where does that $6.45 go? Is there accountability? |
On Sat, 05 Mar 2005 17:50:12 -0500, jim wrote:
K7ME 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. Where does that $6.45 go? Is there accountability? $14.00 now. Vinnie S. |
"Vinnie S." wrote in message ... On Sat, 05 Mar 2005 17:50:12 -0500, jim wrote: K7ME 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. Where does that $6.45 go? Is there accountability? $14.00 now. Vinnie S. Yes, there is accountability. You must register each and every examinee. The VEs get to keep a percentage, the rest goes to the VEC. The VECs and FCC know exactly how much you've collected. Put it this way, no fees, no license. Even if the person fails, a portion of the money he/she paid for that test is turned in just as though they'd passed. BEFORE anyone jumps to conclusions, the amount the VEs keep is NOT enough to compensate a 3 man team for even an hour. That doesn't count copies if needed, phone calls out of pocket to examinees - confirming testing dates, or follow up in case of a question after the fact. It doesn't count many things in. A popular magazine editor ****ed me off once by "assuming" VEs get rich off this. THEY DON'T. Become one, you'll see. If you traveled say 10 miles to help your club give exams, at today's gas prices, there is no way in hell that pittance left over could pay your gas and time. You have to pay the postage to send in the exam package, need large envelopes, etc. Supplies cost money unless you are lucky and get them for nothing. Our team kept "any" money left over after all expenses - for future expenses. "IF" a small kitty started accumulating, then coffee was bought to provide to the examinees of future sessions, supplies were purchased for future dates. Believe me, you will NOT get rich off of being a VE. The V stands for "Volunteer", which is what you have to love to do, to put in the time that is required. If you have busy sessions, it is a handful. The FCC does not allow you to make a "profit", but they do consider costs involved...... cl |
jim wrote:
K7ME 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. Where does that $6.45 go? Is there accountability? In most cases, there is probably some accountability. The main reason for the charge is to recover the cost of the materials used in administering the tests. Prices vary from testing station to testing station depending on what they need to provide the service. The VEs donate their time to administer the tests and file the necessary paperwork, but do not have to provide the funding. -- Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM http://www.k7mem.com (remove _nospam_ from my email to reply) |
K7MEM wrote:
jim wrote: K7ME 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. Where does that $6.45 go? Is there accountability? In most cases, there is probably some accountability. The main reason for the charge is to recover the cost of the materials used in administering the tests. Prices vary from testing station to testing station depending on what they need to provide the service. The VEs donate their time to administer the tests and file the necessary paperwork, but do not have to provide the funding. Hmmmm. Without having to Google for the answer I figured to ask an amateur for answers to the fee accounting. Price variances and accounting probabilities makes for an ideal situation for greed. |
jim wrote: K7MEM wrote: jim wrote: K7ME 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. Where does that $6.45 go? Is there accountability? In most cases, there is probably some accountability. The main reason for the charge is to recover the cost of the materials used in administering the tests. Prices vary from testing station to testing station depending on what they need to provide the service. The VEs donate their time to administer the tests and file the necessary paperwork, but do not have to provide the funding. Hmmmm. Without having to Google for the answer I figured to ask an amateur for answers to the fee accounting. Price variances and accounting probabilities makes for an ideal situation for greed. There is a VE, on another part of this thread, that explains it in more detail. But, the returns from this kind of venture would be minimal. I don't think anyone could make any real money trying to scam this one. Even the FCC gave up on running the testing because they were losing money and couldn't support the personnel required. Now they still control the whole thing, but with minimum cost. -- Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM http://www.k7mem.com (remove _nospam_ from my email to reply) |
"K7MEM" wrote in message
... jim wrote: K7MEM wrote: jim wrote: K7ME 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. Where does that $6.45 go? Is there accountability? In most cases, there is probably some accountability. The main reason for the charge is to recover the cost of the materials used in administering the tests. Prices vary from testing station to testing station depending on what they need to provide the service. The VEs donate their time to administer the tests and file the necessary paperwork, but do not have to provide the funding. Hmmmm. Without having to Google for the answer I figured to ask an amateur for answers to the fee accounting. Price variances and accounting probabilities makes for an ideal situation for greed. There is a VE, on another part of this thread, that explains it in more detail. But, the returns from this kind of venture would be minimal. I don't think anyone could make any real money trying to scam this one. Even the FCC gave up on running the testing because they were losing money and couldn't support the personnel required. Now they still control the whole thing, but with minimum cost. -- Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM http://www.k7mem.com (remove _nospam_ from my email to reply) I don't know where they get greed from. A good part of the time, there isn't much left over worth fighting for. As I said, if the VEs traveled any distance, the little bit left over wouldn't be worth a crap as far as reimbursement for gas..... Not at today's prices especially. IF you're going into testing for "profit" which is not allowed, may the Lord bless you, because you'll need it. BELIEVE ME - KEEP YOUR DAY JOB......... Getting "big" bucks from VE Exams????? Give me a break........... IF they are - to the point of fighting over it, then something sounds wrong. cl |
On Sat, 5 Mar 2005 22:34:16 -0500, "cl" wrote:
"Vinnie S." wrote in message .. . On Sat, 05 Mar 2005 17:50:12 -0500, jim wrote: K7ME 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. Where does that $6.45 go? Is there accountability? $14.00 now. Vinnie S. Yes, there is accountability. You must register each and every examinee. The VEs get to keep a percentage, the rest goes to the VEC. The VECs and FCC know exactly how much you've collected. Put it this way, no fees, no license. Even if the person fails, a portion of the money he/she paid for that test is turned in just as though they'd passed. There must be accountability. They asked me for 2 picture IDs Vinnie S. |
cl wrote:
"K7MEM" wrote in message ... jim wrote: K7MEM wrote: jim wrote: K7ME 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. Where does that $6.45 go? Is there accountability? In most cases, there is probably some accountability. The main reason for the charge is to recover the cost of the materials used in administering the tests. Prices vary from testing station to testing station depending on what they need to provide the service. The VEs donate their time to administer the tests and file the necessary paperwork, but do not have to provide the funding. Hmmmm. Without having to Google for the answer I figured to ask an amateur for answers to the fee accounting. Price variances and accounting probabilities makes for an ideal situation for greed. There is a VE, on another part of this thread, that explains it in more detail. But, the returns from this kind of venture would be minimal. I don't think anyone could make any real money trying to scam this one. Even the FCC gave up on running the testing because they were losing money and couldn't support the personnel required. Now they still control the whole thing, but with minimum cost. -- Martin E. Meserve - K7MEM http://www.k7mem.com (remove _nospam_ from my email to reply) I don't know where they get greed from. A good part of the time, there isn't much left over worth fighting for. As I said, if the VEs traveled any distance, the little bit left over wouldn't be worth a crap as far as reimbursement for gas..... Not at today's prices especially. IF you're going into testing for "profit" which is not allowed, may the Lord bless you, because you'll need it. BELIEVE ME - KEEP YOUR DAY JOB......... Getting "big" bucks from VE Exams????? Give me a break........... IF they are - to the point of fighting over it, then something sounds wrong. cl My point cl is that there is an avenue for fraud as there seems to be little oversight concerning the intake of funds from the interested public. Do you have a link where one could read up on how the VE's should conduct the business end of examinations? As an aside what are your call letters? 73, Jim. |
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. "Seņor 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. "Seņor Sombra" wrote in message news:nW_Vd.43987$xt.16268@fed1read07... Vinnie from one who has taught Morse code to many students: FOR MANY -- studying EVERY day for 15 to 30 minutes is successful. Leaving long periods between study sessions is usually counter-productive. Studying for long periods at a session - frazzles many a brain. Most people's problems with the code stem from trying to learn it too fast without sufficient drilling before they move on to each new letter. The average person needs about 30 hours of study and practice on the code to hit 5 wpm. Now this is an average. Some will take longer and some will take less." So a half hour in the morning, a half hour in the evening and in a month -- you should have it. Good Luck and kudos on your dedication -- it will be worth while. -- Lamont Cranston "Vinnie S." wrote in message ... On Fri, 04 Mar 2005 06:52:49 -0700, K7MEM wrote: I am using morse academy. I have passed the practice tests for tech, no problem. The General, I got 19 out of 35, without once even looking at a book. If I could somehow pass morse and get 7 more correct answers in general. Otherwise, I will just wait. Thanks ! Vinnie S. |
``REAL HAMS`` do CW Keep Logbooks & QSL 100% 73,``THE REAL HAM``
My Family Website-- http://mysite.verizon.net/res868sp/t...ily/index.html My Amatuer Radio Website-- http://www.qsl.net/kb9ygd/index.html http://dx.qsl.net/logs ---Search My Logbook .. |
Bogie - Here's typing to you kid
The "Real Hams" elmer others, do public relations work, are involved with emergency services, ARES, RACES, National Traffic Net, skywarn, animal rescue, sheriffs auxiliary, VE work, QSL Managers, QSL Bureaus, etc Then they do CW Keep Logbooks & QSL 100% -- Round up the usual spammers Rains In Casablanker -- "NORMAN TRIANTAFILOS" wrote in message news:bQGYd.1023$oa6.116@trnddc07... ``REAL HAMS`` do CW Keep Logbooks & QSL 100% 73,``THE REAL HAM`` My Family Website-- http://mysite.verizon.net/res868sp/t...ily/index.html My Amatuer Radio Website-- http://www.qsl.net/kb9ygd/index.html http://dx.qsl.net/logs ---Search My Logbook . |
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