Just got my Extra last month and I'm hearing conflicting advice about DXCC applications. Some elmers say I should use LoTW to save on postage costs and make verification simple, while others insist paper QSL cards are the "real" way to do it. I know there's no charge for getting a LoTW certificate or uploading QSOs, only when applying for awards. Which route should a new DXer take, and can I mix both methods? I'm at 67 countries confirmed and want to get my first DXCC for 100 countries right.

Welcome to DXing! You can absolutely mix both methods - many of us do hybrid applications all the time. For LoTW credits you must go into LoTW itself and select the QSOs you want to apply for. Start with LoTW for the common countries where stations regularly upload, then use paper cards for the rare ones that don't participate in LoTW yet.

I went the LoTW route for my first DXCC and saved a fortune on postage! Just send a copy of your license to ARRL and they'll provide the digital key to sign your logs. The fantastic bonus is being able to log in and see your totals in real-time.

Been doing this since the paper-only days, and LoTW is a game-changer. If you do use paper cards, make sure they're in proper order - band first, then mode - and that your record sheet matches the card order exactly. The new online tools make award chasing so much more enjoyable.