The dot, therefore, involves time , but this time is variable, according to circumstances. The length of the dot should increase with the length of the circuit. In commencing, therefore, the habit should be acquired of making short, firm dashes , instead of light, quick dots . Beginners should rather take pride in the accuracy with which they space out the elements of the telegraphic music than in the number of words they can stumble through in a minute. Dots close together.
Dashes close together.
A dot followed by a dash. A dash followed by a dot. Correctness in sending depends in a great measure upon the manner in which the key itself is handled. Place the first two fingers upon the top of the button of the key, with the thumb partly beneath it, the wrist being entirely free from the table. The motion should be made by the hand and wrist, the thumb and fingers being employed merely to grasp the key.