Morse Code Numbers Chart: How to Encode & Decode 0‑9
Master the full Morse code numbers chart (0‑9) with visual dots‑and‑dashes, timing rules, and memory tricks. Learn how to send, receive, and practice Morse numerals fast.
Morse code numbers chart is a low‑key powerhouse keyword: thousands of learners search it every month, yet most pages just list the symbols. This guide goes deeper—showing visual charts, timing rules, and memory hacks—so you can send and decode numerals confidently.
Quick‑Reference Chart
| Number | Morse Code | Spoken Rhythm | Memory Hook |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | ----- | dah‑dah‑dah‑dah‑dah | "All dashes, zero dots" |
| 1 | .---- | dit‑dah‑dah‑dah‑dah | "Dot + four dashes" |
| 2 | ..--- | dit‑dit‑dah‑dah‑dah | "Two dots, three dashes" |
| 3 | ...-- | dit‑dit‑dit‑dah‑dah | "Three dots, two dashes" |
| 4 | ....- | dit‑dit‑dit‑dit‑dah | "Four dots, one dash" |
| 5 | ..... | dit‑dit‑dit‑dit‑dit | "All dots, halfway there" |
| 6 | -.... | dah‑dit‑dit‑dit‑dit | "Reverse of 4" |
| 7 | --... | dah‑dah‑dit‑dit‑dit | "Reverse of 3" |
| 8 | ---.. | dah‑dah‑dah‑dit‑dit | "Reverse of 2" |
| 9 | ----. | dah‑dah‑dah‑dah‑dit | "Reverse of 1" |
Pro Tip: Notice the symmetry—0 is all dashes, 5 is all dots, and the rest mirror around 5.
How to Read the Chart
- Dit vs Dah length
A dit (·) lasts 1 unit; a dah (–) = 3 units.
📏 If your WPM is 20, 1 unit ≈ 60 ms. - Intra‑symbol spacing
The gap between dits and dahs = 1 unit.
Example: the "6" pattern-....is spoken dah (3) +1 + dot (1) +1 .... - Letter vs Number gap
Pause 3 units between symbols, 7 units between words.
Practice Drill
Try this: Flash Beacon the number 2025 at 18 WPM.
Sequence:..--- ----- ..--- ......
Total on‑air time ≈ (5+5+5+5) × 1 unit = 20 units.
Mnemonics to Memorize Fast
- Ladder Rule – Count dots upward from 1 to 5, then dashes downward 6‑9.
- Mirror Trick – Numbers equidistant from 5 are mirror images (e.g., 1 vs 9).
- Phone‑Pad Patterns – Map dots to left, dashes to right on a keypad: 1‑2‑3 left‑heavy, 7‑8‑9 right‑heavy.
🎧 Audio practice: Use our Morse Player set to Numbers Only mode.
Real‑World Use Cases
- Amateur Radio Contests – Serial numbers are sent as Morse numerals for logging.
- Emergency Signalling – Coordinates and frequencies often encode digits.
- CTCSS / PL Codes – Older repeater systems transmit sub‑tones as Morse numbers during IDs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do many learners struggle with Morse numbers?
Digits are longer (5 units) than letters (1–4 units), so beginners fatigue quicker. Chunk them in pairs, and practice at full speed from day 1 to avoid "farnsworth crutch".
Can I shorten numbers like I do with prosigns?
Yes—contesters often send 5NN for "599" to save time, but never invent non‑standard codes for other digits; stick to ITU spec.
Are numbers case‑sensitive?
Morse is not case‑aware. A and a use the same .- pattern, so do numbers.
Downloadable Resources
- Printable PDF Chart – A4 & Letter sizes
[Download the numbers chart →](https://cdn.morsecode4u.com/morse-numbers-chart.pdf) - Anki Deck – Spaced‑repetition flashcards for digits 0‑9
[Get the deck →](https://cdn.morsecode4u.com/morse-numbers-anki.apkg) - CSV Practice List – Random 4‑digit combos for keying drills
Next Steps
- Bookmark this page or add the PDF to your shack wall.
- Practice sending today's date (e.g., 2404) five times.
- Graduate to mixed letters + numbers—try "CQ TEST 73".
🔔 Pro upgrade coming soon – Auto WPM analyzer that scores your timing! Subscribe below.
References
- ITU‑R M.1677‑1: International Morse Code (2009 revision)
- ARRL Handbook 2025, Chapter 27 – Morse Techniques
- G4FON Koch Trainer Documentation
Made with 🔧 & ❤️ by MorseCode4U.