How Morse code works
Morse code writes each letter and number as a pattern of short signals (dots, “dit”) and long signals (dashes, “dah”). The timing is what makes it readable:
- A dash is three times as long as a dot.
- The gap between dots and dashes in one letter is one dot long.
- The gap between letters is three dots; between words, seven.
Speed is measured in words per minute (WPM), based on the word “PARIS”. Beginners copy at 5–10 WPM; experienced radio operators at 20–30 WPM or more.
Morse code alphabet
| A ·− | B −··· | C −·−· | D −·· | E · | F ··−· |
| G −−· | H ···· | I ·· | J ·−−− | K −·− | L ·−·· |
| M −− | N −· | O −−− | P ·−−· | Q −−·− | R ·−· |
| S ··· | T − | U ··− | V ···− | W ·−− | X −··− |
| Y −·−− | Z −−·· | 1 ·−−−− | 2 ··−−− | 3 ···−− | 4 ····− |
| 5 ····· | 6 −···· | 7 −−··· | 8 −−−·· | 9 −−−−· | 0 −−−−− |
SOS and famous Morse messages
- SOS:
... --- ...sent as one continuous signal. It was chosen because it’s easy to send and recognise, not because it stands for “save our souls”. - I love you:
.. / .-.. --- ...- . / -.-- --- ..- - Hello:
.... . .-.. .-.. ---
Tips for learning Morse
Learn letters by their sound rather than by counting dots and dashes. Start with E (·), T (−), A, N, I and M, play them at a fast character speed with longer gaps, and slowly add letters. Saying “di-dah” for A helps more than picturing “·−”.
Frequently asked questions
How do I translate Morse code to text?
Type or paste the Morse code using . and - with a space between letters and / between words. The translator detects Morse and shows the text.
What is SOS in Morse code?
SOS is ... --- ... (three dots, three dashes, three dots), sent without gaps between the letters as an emergency signal.
Can I hear the Morse code?
Yes. Click Play to hear it, change the speed and pitch, or download it as a WAV sound file.
How fast is Morse code?
Speed is measured in words per minute. Beginners start around 5–10 WPM; skilled operators send at 20–40 WPM.
Which characters are supported?
Letters A–Z, numbers 0–9 and common punctuation such as . , ? ! / ( ) & : ; = + - _ " $ @ and the apostrophe.
Last updated October 2026 · More converters