Just got my license and I'm hearing lots of Q codes on the air that I don't understand. I know QSO means contact and QTH is location, but there are so many more. Which Q codes should I prioritize learning first? I heard someone say QRL? before transmitting - is that important?

Also, when I use Q codes in a question, do I need to add a question mark when speaking, or just in CW?

Start with the essential ones: QRL (frequency in use?), QRZ (who's calling?), QSY (change frequency), and QRT (stop transmitting). QRL? is very important - always ask if a frequency is in use before calling CQ. For voice, you don't need to say "question mark" - your tone of voice makes it clear it's a question.

Don't forget QRM (interference) and QRN (static noise) - you'll hear these constantly during band conditions discussions. Both are often misused as nouns, like "lots of QRM tonight". Focus on the ones you'll actually use in everyday QSOs rather than memorizing the whole list at once.

I made flash cards for the most common ones and practiced during my commute. Remember you'll hear Q-codes in voice modes too, not just CW, so even if you're not a Morse operator you need to know them. Once you start using them regularly, they become second nature.