Morse Code Timing Rules
Timing is the core of Morse code. Even if symbols are correct, bad timing can make messages hard to understand.
Core Unit System
Morse timing is based on a single unit length. A dot is one unit and a dash is three units.
The pause between elements in one letter is one unit.
- Dot = 1 unit
- Dash = 3 units
Letter and Word Gaps
A full gap between letters is three units. A gap between words is seven units.
These gaps prevent words from merging together during listening or manual decoding.
- Letter gap = 3 units
- Word gap = 7 units
Practice with Rhythm
Count timing in a steady rhythm when practicing: short-short-short for dots and long holds for dashes.
Consistency is more important than speed when you are learning.