Koch method explained

The Koch method, named after German psychologist Ludwig Koch, is simple and strict: learn Morse at the full character speed you intend to use, start with a tiny set of characters, and only add a new character when accuracy is high.

Why not A, then B, then C?

Alphabet order feels orderly. It also invites slow character speeds, visual mnemonics, and a false sense of progress (“I know 10 letters… slowly”). Koch trades vanity progress for instant character recognition — the skill that actually works on the air.

The rules that matter

1. Character elements (dit/dah inside a letter) stay at target speed (often ~15–20+ WPM).
2. You begin with two characters only.
3. You practice random groups from the known set.
4. You add one character only after you pass an accuracy threshold.

MorseTime's gate: 10 groups at ≥90% letter accuracy, meters always visible.

MorseTime free intro (K M R S U)

Our free intro matches the Reddit app funnel so learners don't relearn a different story:

1. Lesson 1 — K and M (rhythm foundation: dah-rich patterns)
2. Lesson 2 — + R
3. Lesson 3 — + S
4. Lesson 4 — + U (intro complete)

After U, the web path continues +1 letter through the alphabet, then digits, punctuation, and prosigns. All free.

MorseTime order vs classic LCWO order

LCWO and many courses use a classic Koch letter sequence that may differ from KMRSU-first. That's okay. MorseTime ships one default track for clarity and funnel parity with Reddit. A “classic Koch order” option can come later if demand is real — dual tracks early double support cost and confusion.

Farnsworth is the other half

Koch without sensible spacing frustrates beginners. Stretch the gaps between letters while keeping character speed high. Details: Farnsworth timing.

Start Lesson 1 · Full learning guide