Complete roadmap for new hams wanting to learn CW:

• Start with apps like Morse Mania to learn letters a few at a time - it turns learning into an engaging game
• Set practice tools to 25-30 WPM to train your ear to recognize the sound of each letter, not individual dits and dahs
• Stay in the 'learning zone' where you're missing about 30-50% of characters - don't worry about perfection, this is where effective learning happens
• Practice sending with tools like CW Checker or VBand for immediate feedback

As soon as you mostly know your letters and have your license, get on the air! Don't wait until you feel 'ready' - the best way to improve is by making real contacts.

Practice a little often, preferably each day - far better than a large amount once a week. Persistence is needed as it takes time. I recommend setting aside 10-15 minutes daily with something like LCWO.net - the Morse Machine setting is very repetitious and only goes at your speed.

Great guide! I'd add that listening off-air is cheapest if you have a receiver - lots of CW transmissions on the bottom ends of HF bands, especially 80m and 40m where you can find slower transmissions. Some national amateur radio societies have schedules of slow Morse transmissions for practice.

As someone still learning, I use Ham Morse app set to play QSOs while taking a shower, then check how much I copied when I get out. Also put a CW app on your phone and run it anytime you're alone - when walking or stuck in traffic, read signs and license plates out in morse code! Every little bit helps build those reflexes.