Basics of Tapping in Morse Code

1. Understand the Timing:
   • Dot (·): A short tap (quick press and release).
   • Dash (–): A long tap (press and hold for about three times the duration of a dot).
   • Space Between Taps:
     • Between Parts of a Letter: A brief pause (equal to the duration of one dot).
     • Between Letters: A slightly longer pause (equal to the duration of three dots).
     • Between Words: A pause even longer (equal to the duration of seven dots).
2. Tapping Tools:
   • Use your fingers to tap on a flat surface, or use objects like a pencil or a switch.
   • Each tap should be distinct and consistent.
3. Practice with Simple Letters:
   • Start with letters like E (·) and T (–) to get used to the timing.
   • Progress to more complex letters like A (·–) and B (–···).

Examples

• A (·–): Short tap, long tap.
• S (···): Three short taps in quick succession.
• O (–––): Three long taps, holding each tap longer.
• HELLO (···· · ·-·· ·-·· —):
  • Tap out: 4 short taps, short pause, 1 short tap, short pause, 1 short and 2 long taps, short pause, 1 short and 2 long taps, short pause, 3 long taps.

Practical Tips

1. Use a Metronome:
   • To maintain consistent timing, use a metronome app or tool to count beats for dots, dashes, and spaces.
2. Start Slow:
   • Practice slowly until you can tap precisely, then gradually increase your speed.
3. Practice Common Words:
   • Tap simple words like SOS (··· ––– ···) to get the rhythm.
4. Experiment with Tools:
   • Use light switches, buttons, or Morse code apps to simulate tapping.