Upgrading to Amateur Extra

Upgrading to Extra class is not as difficult as you may think

NuMorse - The NuMorse and NuCode programs are both excellent and were created for one purpose in mind; to help you ace the FCC 5 WPM code test

AA9PW - I used this site extensively to take practice tests.  The site gives you percentages of your correct answers on each sub-element within the exam.  This enables you to focus on becoming more familiar with the particular material that you are having trouble with.

    I suggest studying until the last moment you have available on the day of the test.  With 800 questions in the pool, it is good to try and keep as many concepts fresh in your head as possible.  It took me around 3 weeks to study for elements 1 and 4.  Keep in mind that I was already mildly familiar with the code prior to that 3 weeks, I just needed to increase my copying speed during that time. 

   While it is possible to memorize the exam answers, with the recent trend toward increasing the size of the question pools, it is actually advantageous to understand the material. As for the CW requirement, I think it should be left in place. It is necessary in order to gain HF privileges, in my opinion, to demonstrate proficiency in a ham-related skill other than question memorization. CW is fun if approached in that manner, and the difference between success and failure is more attitude than aptitude related.

Morse practice from the ARRL

QSO's are at a rate of 5 WPM and you will find the text of each QSO below the file

� 2003 by Greg Ellis