Is there a question you think should be here that we missed? Ask it in the comments at the bottom of the page!
General FAQ
These are things useful for all amateur radio operators — currently licensed, previously licensed, or aspiring.
What is an FCC Registration Number and how do I get one?
An FCC Registration Number is a number assigned to you by the FCC which can be used with all FCC transactions (including applying for a new call sign, renewing your existing one, etc) in place of your social security number. Read more here.
How do I update or renew my license?
You can renew your Amateur Radio license on the FCC website completely free! Read more here for instructions and screenshots to see how it works.
Where do the question pools come from?
The question pools are written by the Question Pool Committee (QPC) from the National Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators.
Many people seem to be under the impression that the question pools are published by the FCC or the ARRL. This is not the case, though the ARRL is likely part of the NCVEC and thus involved in the process.
The original documents can be found here. If you would like to write something using the question pools, we have them in json and xml format and will make them available to you on request, just send us an email.
HamStudy.org-specific FAQ
Do you have a mobile version?
Update: As of May, 2018 we do! You can always use hamstudy.org in your mobile browser, but for those users who want to use HamStudy.org without an internet connection we have offline-capable apps for most mobile and desktop platforms!
We do ask $3.99 for the offline capable app, but keep in mind this includes all question pools and explanations from the website! Also, if that’s too much for you we still welcome you to use the online website for free!
Can I reset my stats / progress on the site?
At present you cannot. This is something we’ll probably enable eventually, however most people who want to do so are under a misunderstanding. The most common reason people ask about this is that they want to study the questions all again, “not just the ones I missed the first time,” or “not just a few of them that come up.”
See the next question for how questions are chosen for the flashcards, but this is not needed. If you keep going through the flashcards, it will keep giving you the questions you need. You will see all the questions again, even if you answered it correctly the first time.
Will I get any questions on my exam that I don’t see while studying on HamStudy.org?
It depends on how you study. The question pools are publicly available — you can download them online for free. This means that any competently developed study program for Amateur Radio has the potential to give you all possible questions.
Where things get tricky, though, is that far too many people rely solely on practice exams to study. Even with HamStudy.org this will not guarantee that you see all the questions.
A well-designed practice exam is exactly what it says — an exam generated exactly like a real exam would be. HamStudy.org’s practice tests work just this way. What this means, though, is that even if you take 30 practice exams you may not see all of the questions!
We at HamStudy.org consider this to be a Bad Thing. Therefore, we created the flashcards. See the next question for exactly how they work, but if you use the flashcards correctly you will see every question in the pool — not just see, but learn, as the ones that you need will be repeated for you. You can also look at the charts to see how much of the pool you have seen and which areas you need to work on the most.
Pretty slick, eh?
How do the flashcards work? How are questions chosen?
The flashcards work on a learning algorithm that ranks questions based on these criteria:
- Whether or not you have seen the question
- Whether or not you have answered it correctly
- How many times you have seen the question
- How recently you have answered it correctly
- How you have done the last 10 times you have seen the question
- What percentage of people answered this question correctly the first time they saw it.
The flashcards use a sliding scale to determine which “rank” of question to choose next. This sliding scale attempts to balance easy/review questions and hard/challenging questions in such a way that it keeps you challenged but not too frustrated to continue.
Can I narrow down my FlashCard studies?
You sure can! At the top of the flashcard screen you will see “Technician Flash Cards: All”. (Of course, the pool name will vary).
Look for this bar at the top of the flashcards screen
Here is the trick that some people miss: The “All” is a dropdown!
Click the “All” button to see a list of subelements
Simply select the subelement you want to study and you’re there! You can also click on a subelement on the chart showing how many you missed after taking a practice test.
Pro Tip: When you start studying, read through the questions for a subelement using the “Read Questions” mode and then study that subelement’s flashcards! Rinse and repeat 10 times and you’re done. Just remember you don’t need perfect aptitude to be ready! (see next item)
What does 100% aptitude mean?
You asked for it, so here is the approximate math:
Overall aptitude is defined as the average aptitude for the group of questions under consideration.
Aptitude for a given question is determined using a logrithmic scale where the most recent time you answered the question is worth 50%, the next most recent 25%, then 12.5%, etc up to the last 10 times you have seen the question. When you haven’t seen the question 10 times, the number is estimated based on the percentage of people who answer that question correctly the first time they see it.
Thus in order to get 100% aptitude, you would need to answer every question correctly 10 times in a row. Let us be very clear on this: If you ever do this, you spent *way* too much time studying this pool and you should have moved on 😉
Pro tips:
How can I best use the resources on HamStudy.org?
There are easy answers to this and hard answers to this =] The main thing is to find what works for you and do it! Here are some overall suggestions, though:
- Use practice tests as a progress gauge, not as a study tool. When you finish the test you can see where you missed the most questions, so focus on that subelement for awhile. Rinse and repeat.
- Don’t underestimate how useful reading the questions can be! That’s why we have the section there, and you can click “Hide Distractors” in the top right corner to hide all but the correct answer.
- Flash cards can get tedious after awhile; break the monotony by reading questions and taking a practice exam now and again. It can also help to select a specific subelement to study.
Whatever method you choose, the most important thing is to not get discouraged and keep going!
By Joe B. January 28, 2015 - 19:25
I thank you for the effort that goes into this great study tool. I plan on taking my General this week and should have no problem passing it.
One suggestion for future consideration, would be to have the order of the answer change or be random. Each of the distractors as well as the correct answer would be there but not always in the same order.
Thanks again,
Joe B.
By kd7bbc July 13, 2015 - 12:44
As of Jul 12, 2015, practice exams and flashcards display with their answers shuffled. =]
By jeff March 26, 2021 - 10:48
As the test questions always have the answers in the same location, it would be good if this was a selectable option as in the app.
By kd7bbc April 2, 2021 - 13:06
It depends on where you take the exam; some test teams randomize the answer order and some do not. That’s just one of those advantages of paying for the app for now =]
By Kathy Bochow September 10, 2022 - 11:42
Could you please delete my account?
By Joe C. December 12, 2023 - 07:42
Does HamStudy have a learn section that goes over the material of the exam in an exam prep fashion that is more than an aptitude test?
I prefer exam study guides instead of memorizing exam questions.
Thanks,
By Jim Nichols May 25, 2015 - 14:22
I’ve been studying here for two days, this is awesome! I am quite confident I will pass my upcoming test. I have to wait 3 more weeks until there is one available, so I will continue to study till then. Thanks for putting this site up. It is very much appreciated!!
By kd7bbc May 26, 2015 - 11:56
Glad we can help!
By Stephen September 4, 2015 - 09:03
Love your flashcards! Makes the learning and review fast and easy.
I’m an American living in Rome, Italy for a year or two or three. Can’t go on the air here without at least an “Extra” so I need to upgrade my Technician! If it’s possible to take the USA exams here in Italy, like maybe at the American Embassy, where can I find that information?
By kd7bbc November 25, 2015 - 14:32
Honestly I have no idea; my guess would be that there is no way to take the exams overseas unless there happens to be a VE team over there. The VECs have been trying to come up with a good way to do remote testing, but given that the question pools are open it’s far too easy to cheat. It’s a tough problem, and nobody has a solution that I’ve heard so far.
By Rob Jennings June 2, 2017 - 10:14
I’m a retired U.S. Foreign Service (Communications) Officer. Several of my colleagues have HAM operator licenses from Tech – Extra. In order to operate ANY broadcast radio or station, regardless of output power or operating frequency, the individual or organization MUST be granted ‘permission to operate’ (PTO) by the host nation. This also applies to foreign embassies for permanent, temporary, and one-time use. Depending on the level of sophistication applied by the host nation’s ‘security service’ (which in most cases has oversight of ALL in-country telecomms), being granted PTO is a long, laborious and very convoluted process for locals, (even diplomatic missions), much less ex- pats, non-citizens and so on. PTO on desired freq’s is rarely granted and may be revoked, without notice, at any time.
By Shon November 13, 2017 - 19:29
For information on using a US ham license in many countries, see: http://www.arrl.org/us-amateurs-operating-overseas. This is a very useful document and can get you on the air fairly quickly (usually, esp. depending on what your license class is — as one gentleman in Italy mentioned, you need to have a US Extra Amateur now to operate at all).
By jesse thomas May 20, 2023 - 07:52
Rob what is your point and why do you have to remind people of this?
By PV-still learning March 19, 2022 - 12:52
An oral exam online might be a solution. It could be more difficult than the multi-answer choice test but then that would give someone a chance.
By Dave Simonson January 14, 2023 - 20:10
I don’t know if this is helpful, but the University here uses something called Desire 2 Learn for submitting/taking assignments, quizzes and other things. You can set the quizzes and exams to require the Respondus Lockdown Browser and have a requirement for remote proctoring that utilizes the student’s laptop video camera and microphone. The student can be required to show the environment, their ID and there is also facial recognition.
By Alessio Sangalli May 14, 2024 - 18:14
I took the FCC test in Italy in 2006; there are groups that offer that service. I had to give a US address so I used my friend’s at that time
By N2POZ September 8, 2015 - 19:21
Last month I passed the General with a 100% , This month I passed the Extra with a 100% again, both times by only using your site. If it helps anyone else, I read through the questions copying down all the math formulas, then while using the flash cards, every time a math problem came up I used the formulas to find the answer till I no longer needed to look at my notes. I did this even if I remembered the answer from the last time, so these formulas would be ingrained into my head. Exam time I was able to remember all the formulas for the test. Thank you HamStudy.org, I have been recommending your site to everyone interested in getting a license.
By Angel Andres October 10, 2015 - 21:48
Okay, I’ll give it a shot. I want to earn my Technician license and this seems like a good way to go about learning and studying.
I’ll keep you posted!
By Joe Langreder October 17, 2015 - 18:55
Thanks to hamstudy.org, I passed the Technician and General exams. The interactive flash cards are brilliant! Not only do they show the correct answers, they give the theory behind those answers. They not only taught, but gave me the confidence to take the exams with an “I can pass” attitude. Thanks for your commitment and effort in putting the best ham study resource on the web.
73,
KD9ETQ
By kd7bbc November 25, 2015 - 14:28
Thanks for your kind words! Please remember that the explanations are provided and maintained by users like you, so if you find them useful please consider helping by updating them or by filling in some of the missing ones!
By Charlie November 9, 2015 - 17:40
Love the website and flash cards, but having trouble right now. I’m about halfway through studying for the Technician License and can’t get flashcards to load tonight using Chrome or Safari (on a Mac). Had this happen the other day too. Is there something I need to look into or change on my computer, or is the site having issues? Thanks for your help!
By kd7bbc November 25, 2015 - 14:27
Comments on the blog site aren’t a very effective way to request support; if you’re still having trouble, we recommend to email us with specific details at support@hamstudy.org. Please note that if you don’t tell us exactly what is happening it’s hard for us to assist; for example, instead of emailing us to say “I can’t get flashcards to load” tell us exactly what you see when you try to make them load. 90% of the time when we get support requests we have to email back a request for more information before we can even understand what problem is being reported.
By Daniel Cox November 14, 2015 - 13:51
Do you have any of those antennas left for the baofeng radios. The fexlible ones you can put into a know sort of speak?
By kd7bbc November 25, 2015 - 14:25
In order to avoid conflicts of interest with HamStudy sponsors, HamStudy.org does not produce or sell any equipment. That said, one of our sponsors, Signal Stuff, makes and sells flexible antennas which look amazingly similar to the ones we had and donates all of the profits to HamStudy.org.
By Peter Johnson November 29, 2015 - 07:54
Love the flash cards though, two of the example schematics didn’t load along with the questions. Will still be using it till the morning of the test.
By kd7bbc December 5, 2015 - 11:46
If it happens again could you email us at support@hamstudy.org and let us know which questions had the issue? I’ll look into it.
By Joseph Fletcher December 13, 2015 - 07:08
Thank you so much for what you do! Before I found this website I was overwhelmed with all of the complex math, questions, and data. Because of this website (and a few helpful ebooks on the internet) I passed my Technician test yesterday, and hope to work on General soon!
By Rico January 24, 2016 - 02:12
Do the flashcards contain the full list of questions that might appear on the test exactly as they would appear on the test?
By kd7bbc February 6, 2016 - 18:52
Yes. The answer order will be shuffled since some exams shuffle them, but otherwise it is exactly the same word for word.
By Russell Jarosinski February 28, 2016 - 12:23
I really think I am still asleep and dreaming as I am reading your website FAQ’s and the many replies, answered in a timely manner, I really think this is too good to be true. But STUDY, I will. Thank you for a great site!¡! ????????????
By kd7bbc February 28, 2016 - 12:30
You’re very welcome — best wishes and good luck on your studies!
By A. March 7, 2016 - 13:37
Thank you so much for providing this invaluable resource to the ham radio community. As someone very new to the hobby it was incredible to find this kind of study support.
My time was well spent here as it helped me be able to pass all three exams. I really love that you include the additional information going into detail about the correct answers.
Thanks for the great experience!
By kd7bbc March 7, 2016 - 13:39
It’s our pleasure! Note that the explanations you’re thanking us for were actually provided by other users like you!
By N1OIE March 19, 2016 - 17:07
This resource saved me! I wanted to get my Extra ticket before the change. The ARRL book was of little help. Thankfully, I found this site last Monday, and with a couple hours of work each over 3 days, I was able to pass (just barely, but a pass is a pass) the exam today. There’s just douche stuff in the Extra exam that 1) I do not care about and 2) I will never use, I was almost to the point where I was convinced it was little more than a self-inflicted hazing. The flash cards, however, gave me a way ahead and a great way to organize my studying and learning. So, many thanks.
By William MITCHELL March 24, 2016 - 19:57
I registered, got a confirmation code, entered in on https://hamstudy.org/confirmsignup and
ABSOLUTELY NOTHING, I repeat, NOTHING happens…just keeps looping back over and over again!!!!!!!!! Very, very, very frustrating!! What gives?
By kd7bbc April 20, 2016 - 08:59
Usually when people experience this issue it’s because they’ve registered more than one time; when you do this, only the last confirmation code that was sent will work.
If you’re having trouble with this, email support@hamstudy.org and we’ll help you on a case by case basis. We will be working to improve on this in the new version which is under development.
By Jonathon Carrillo April 27, 2016 - 11:54
I started using this site at the beginning of the month and I just passed my technician license! Thank you so much this is a great study tool.
I have a question, I am waiting for my FCC license but I plan to take the General license test in one month. Will my FCC license number change when I get the next level?
By kd7bbc April 27, 2016 - 11:57
Congratulations on your new license! Your FCC Registration Number will always remain the same; you can request a new call sign when you fill out your Form 605 for the upgrade, but otherwise your call sign will remain the same. I wouldn’t worry about changing it for General, but you could try when you go for Extra if you want; alternately you could get a vanity call sign.
By Mac May 1, 2016 - 17:01
Richard,
Are you still selling the 17″ spring whip with SMA that you had at Rubies Inn Swap
meet?
By kd7bbc May 1, 2016 - 18:31
We don’t sell anything under the HamStudy.org name, but HamStudy.org is owned and funded by Signal Stuff which sells them on its website: https://signalstuff.com
Shipping is $2 for the first antenna, $0.50 more for each additional, and free for orders over $50.
By Stephen M. June 17, 2016 - 16:33
Thank you. I signed up for the test thinking I’d have more study time, as the test approached I had studied but didn’t feel ready. I only missed 3 and obtained my Technician. Looking forward to my next two exams (after some more time studying here.)
Thank you,
Stephen M. KM4UPY 🙂
By Alex September 6, 2016 - 22:08
Great website! I was wondering, If you fail the test, do you still have to pay the $15? or only if you pass, then you pay.
By kd7bbc September 6, 2016 - 22:11
The fee is for taking the test, not for having the license issued, so you pay whether you pass or not.
If you pass, most VE groups will let you try the next one for free; as long as you keep passing tests you can keep taking them =] Once you fail you have to pay again if you want to retake the exam. Some groups will let you keep trying as many times as you are willing to pay for and some don’t. Not all VECs charge the same amount, also; ARRL is $15, but W5YI is $14, GLAARG is $5 (I think), and Laurel is free.
These are rules of thumb only; there could be exceptions with specific groups.
By Kevin Crandall October 16, 2016 - 19:58
Passed all my tests using your Hamstudy.org materials on my iPhone. It worked perfectly. I recommend it to everyone who asks me. This is an excellent tool. Reading all the questions first is a key. Then do the flash cards a group at a time and then finally all of them and then the tests. I also ordered several of the antennas. They are perfect on the little Chinese radios. They are lightweight and tough. Just wanted to say how much I appreciated all the materials and your hard work on this app.
By Ruben Olveda November 20, 2016 - 08:52
Hello, I have been visiting many pages of study for amateur exam, and this is the one found excellent, Thank you very much.
By himiguel/ Miguel December 29, 2016 - 20:56
I want to thank this site and all that run this site . I started here 12/2015 I think , and passed my teck. and the general and on 12/22/2016 , I took and passed the extra test .All from studying on this site . !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Michelle Lea January 30, 2017 - 09:08
I am wondering if there is an error in question G4 E10’s answer? G4
E10
What is the reason that a series diode is connected between a solar panel and a storage battery that is being charged by the panel?
B.
The diode prevents self-discharge of the battery though the panel during times of low or no illumination
Should “though” be through?
By kd7bbc January 30, 2017 - 20:45
I think you’re probably right; however, my policy is not to fix typos in the pool until they are fixed in the official source, which can be found at http://ncvec.org/page.php?id=364
By Ross Cecil (KC9JOV) January 30, 2017 - 09:50
My thanks to all who work on HamStudy.org! You have created a great product and should be proud of it. I had more available time than some for study so I was able to work on both General and Amateur Extra at the same time. HamStudy was my only tool for studying for Extra; I worked through the flash cards, reading the expanded information on each, and following the included web links until I knew the material. I was able to more than pass both exams on the same day. Thanks again. KC9JOV/AE
By Rich February 25, 2017 - 16:49
Many Many Thanks for Ham Study. Returning to amateur radio after 28 years away, reviewed the Tech/Gen question for 1 hour each evening for two weeks. Took my exams the Sunday following passed both with 100%!!
Painless even Fun and Awesomely effective! Now working on my Extra class. This time going to a give it a two month study period. Fingers crossed. Thanks Again!
By Steve Richardson March 19, 2017 - 00:18
Just wanted to let you know that I took the Technician written test this morning. Passed with flying colors and only missed one question.
On to the General now. The test date is 4/19. Using your questions and flash cards I’ll be ready. Thanks again, Steve
By smallcaps March 23, 2017 - 15:52
Your site is the best use of flash cards that I’ve ever seen. I didn’t know anything about ham radio, but the flash cards are so much fun, I’ve got 84/100 technician in less than two days and am interested to learn more.
By Rob T. May 19, 2017 - 09:32
I just stumbled across your site. I’m very impressed by the explanation functionality.
Where is the best place to make suggestions for this site?
Can you make a link to the explanation more direct for people using screen readers? The visual pull down in the corner with the ‘I’ information icon looks great for sighted people, but is challenging for those without sight.
By kd7bbc May 22, 2017 - 14:37
Usually the best way to make suggestions is to email support at the website domain, but this works. We are working on a new layout for the website and I will absolutely keep that suggestion in mind; I hadn’t considered how a screen reader would deal with the explanation button. Thanks for the feedback!
By Drew May 22, 2017 - 13:12
I have a fairly captive audience where I work, so when I talk about my job and ways to enjoy it to junior members I ALWAYS recommend this site for those interested in amateur radio. I was crunched for time but otherwise would have breezed through my extra; I finished with my general.
Thank you for maintaining this awesome tool.
By kd7bbc May 22, 2017 - 14:35
Very happy to be able to help! Congrats on your extra!
By Andres Delgado June 20, 2017 - 11:17
Question: I have a FCC General Radio Operator License GROL with RADAR endorsement since 2001. Is HAM radio privileges and limitations covered under the GROL certification?
I’m into RC Flying and transitioning into FPV flying that requires to have a HAM Radio License to be legal. Please any help to this question is greatly appreciated.
By kd7bbc June 21, 2017 - 10:05
No form of commercial radio endorsement from the FCC conveys any privileges to amateur radio frequencies; the only way to gain access to the amateur radio service is to take an amateur radio license exam.
By Bob Keating June 22, 2017 - 14:16
Invaluable study tool. I used Ham Study.org for both my General and most recently my Extra exam in addition to the ARRL Extra Class License Manual. The latter two are a must for the Amatuer Extra exam, it is not easy. I spent 3 months preparing for it and passed with a 92%.
By Brian J. Bean August 5, 2017 - 17:50
I signed up for an exam through hamstudy.org and studied hard in the prior weeks only to show up and find out the exam had been rescheduled for earlier that day. I contacted the volunteer who ran the session and they said they updated the information and hamstudy.org should have let me know about the change. I was never notified of the change. Another guy showed up at the originally scheduled time and was not notified of the change either. I am very upset that the next available test in my area is several weeks away. I feel like my studies the last two weeks were a complete waste. Ultimately, I am wondering how I can sign up for a test and ensure that change notifications get to me. This cannot happen again.
By kd7bbc August 28, 2017 - 10:57
I’m really sorry about that, Brian; that was apparently a miscommunication / misunderstanding between us and the VE team. We don’t yet have automatic notification working and they apparently thought we did. It’s something that is very high on my priority list, but I just haven’t had time to finish it yet 🙁
That sounds like an extremely frustrating evening and I can only offer my sincerest apologies. I hoped to have it done before answering you as an apology, but I have it only about half complete still and I have already waited too long to respond to you.
Don’t give up — I’m very sorry for the frustration that we inadvertently contributed to
By Ermin Sallmen December 1, 2017 - 23:31
I am so new at this. I do not understand much anything. Is there somewhere I can get definitions of everything. Need help?
By kd7bbc December 1, 2017 - 23:57
It can be a little overwhelming! There are a number of free resources available as well as some paid resources which you can try. See our Links page for some ideas!
By Steve Middleton December 21, 2017 - 21:35
Terrific website! Can you take the Technician, General and Extra exams all in the same day? Thanks!!!
By kd7bbc December 22, 2017 - 09:25
Absolutely! The only limitations would be if the group running the exam session is not prepared to offer all three. In fact, most of the time if you pay for the first you can keep testing without paying again until you have passed all of them! We call that a “triple play” =] At our test session in Provo, UT I see it maybe 2-3 times per year (which is less than 1% of all applicants).
By Kimberly December 28, 2017 - 08:12
How do I change the email address on my profile?
By kd7bbc December 28, 2017 - 12:04
This doesn’t come up a lot, so we haven’t taken the time to set up an automated method, but you can contact support@hamstudy.org with the request and we can take care of it for you. You could also file a support request at https://jira.signalstuff.com/servicedesk/customer/portal/1
By Dennis Major June 7, 2018 - 14:13
You need to update your FAQ: “Do you have a mobile version?”
By kd7bbc June 7, 2018 - 19:29
Good point =] Done!
By Keith L. Manning June 8, 2018 - 09:08
Thanks guys for such an outstanding resource to help us study for our Ham exams! I took and passed my Technician Class exam last night here in Mesa, AZ. Now, as the saying goes, I’m licensed to learn! Our classes were offered for free by a great, personable, and knowledgeable instructor, who, with a helper, even programmed students’ radios with over 50 local frequencies! Now, I might even be brave enough to study and test for General and Extra, join ARRL, and a local ham club!
Since I’m an ol’ retired hermit on Social Security, I don’t have much in the way of financial resources, but maybe I can find an Elmer [or a cute Emma], who will steer me to a good source for affordable and reliable antennas, base stations, and mobile equipment for my 32-year old, shiny Camry [do these things ever die?]! I might even try again to learn Morse Code, for grins and giggles!
By kd7bbc June 8, 2018 - 17:26
Hey Keith,
Welcome to the hobby =] For good HT antennas check out HamStudy.org owner Signal Stuff – signalstuff.com — those antennas help fund the website. For other things, there are many resources out there! Some are listed towards the bottom at http://localhost:8080/links/
By Clint June 10, 2018 - 08:54
I’m sorry to ask this question here but I can’t find out how to contact HamStudy.org. So, my ? is in the NEW study guide for 2018 in question number 3 asks…..
T1
A03
What are the FCC rules regarding the use of a phonetic alphabet for station identification in the Amateur Radio Service?
A. It is required when transmitting emergency messages
B. It is prohibited
C. It is required when in contact with foreign stations
D. It is encouraged
and the answer is D.
I’m sorry but I don’t get it. Is this a typo?? or is that the real question?
By kd7bbc June 10, 2018 - 19:24
Hi Clint,
All of the questions are real, yes =] They are maintained by the NCVEC (ncvec.org) so everyone uses the same banks, these are not generated or maintained by us.
Did you click the top right corner of the question and read the explanation? It looks fairly well written to me.
– Richard, KD7BBC
By Joe Williamson July 6, 2018 - 18:23
Totally new to HAM and the idea of studying for a license!
I wanted to ask, I noticed Technician, General, and Extra what separates those qualifications? meaning what are their differences.
Also do you have to start with Tech and work up or can you study for Extra and only pass for Tech, or General?
I am totally Blind using a screen reader (JFW) so may have over-sighted the information on the site.
This site is the most informative site I have found thus far! I have yet to give the study a try just hoping it is accessible
By kd7bbc July 7, 2018 - 18:40
Hi Joe,
I have been told that the website works decently well with a screen reader — if it doesn’t please let me know and I’ll see if there is anything we can do to help.
In order to qualify for Extra you must have passed all three elements: Element 2 (Technician), Element 3 (General), and Element 4 (Extra). To qualify for Technician you just need element 2, for general you need element 2 and element 3, etc.
If you’re wondering about the numbering, Element 1 used to be Morse Code but is of course no longer required.
Hope that helps!
Richard
KD7BBC
By Dominic Pelaketiyage July 28, 2018 - 19:32
Thank you so much for your time making this site and the app. I started refreshing my memory using your website and the app and I was able to pass the General exam today. Honestly, I studied only around 3 weeks and missed only one question in my test. I highly recommend to anyone to use this website or the app to pass your HAM test.
By colleen August 6, 2018 - 17:52
Thank you so much for all the thought and work that has gone into this site. I am just beginning my studies, but I have been warned to make sure I am studying for the new test that came out July 1st 2018. Is this site directed toward that test?
By kd7bbc September 20, 2018 - 22:23
Of course!
By Joseph October 27, 2018 - 13:05
Great site Passed Elements 2 & 3 today, never operated a radio apart from CB in my life, just bought a BF-F9 V2+… Thanks.
By Neal November 23, 2018 - 05:47
Hi, I would like to question pools in json and xml files. Strictly for personal use. Thanks
By kd7bbc February 2, 2019 - 17:57
Email me at support@hamstudy.org and I’ll give you instructions
By Don McRoberts December 18, 2018 - 17:35
Your site looks great! However, I have a question. When I tried to register using my call-sign, I received a message saying my username was already in use. I don’t remember ever registering with HamStudy previously. How can I verify that no one else is using my call-sign for a username? I can find no Contact Us or other means of making contact with HamStudy personnel. Feel free to delete this post, after answering my question, as it really doesn’t pertain to studying for a license.
Thanks,
73 – W3DRM – Don
By kd7bbc February 2, 2019 - 17:56
You can reset your password by going to https://hamstudy.org/reset and putting in the username; if it says the username is in use but you don’t get an email then it’s a good sign someone else is using it. Email us at support@hamstudy.org and we’ll see what we can tell you.
By Steven Huynh December 20, 2018 - 12:44
Hi, You mentioned that all these pool questions will be word for word on the actual exam.
My question is, can I straight up just memorize the mathematical answers instead of learning how to calculate it?
Example: “12 watts to 4 watts radio – 4db.” (I memorized this one pretty well)
By kd7bbc February 2, 2019 - 17:55
Yes, that is 100% possible.
By KD9NMT September 6, 2019 - 21:37
Just wanted to say Thanks a lot HamStudy – you have a FANTASTIC website- I practiced my Extra exams material for several weeks and just got home from passing it this evening – feels great to finally be an Extra!! Thanks again – Steve
By Danny September 20, 2019 - 23:48
I was licensed back in the early 90s and for a long time but due to “life” had to step away from the hobby and my license expired (beyond the grace period). I am now happily ready and able to get back to the hobby. This site is a GREAT study aid and I intend to try all 3 ham exams (Tech, General, Extra) at the same time on October 6th using hamstudy.org as the primary source of study. Thank you for all you have done to help the hobby!
I still believe it would be very helpful to be able to reset the study (flashcard) stats as desired. The Seen/Aptitude chart info is EXTREMELY helpful and I believe would be extremely encouraging to see improvement there by allowing a reset.
Also, this Leave a Reply box would be best located at the top of the comments.
My post originally gave me a warning about my VPN. I turned that off and resubmitted and now it says nope you have a duplicate post. So, hopefully this goes through.
Thanks again!!
By kd7bbc September 21, 2019 - 15:55
Our offline app (https://hamstudy.org/appstores) supports creating a “study session” which hides your previous progress for the duration, allowing you to effectively reset your stats without losing your history — we still feel that in 90% of the cases that’s a less efficient way to study, but as so many people ask for it we put it in.
Good studies!
By Penny Crane November 2, 2020 - 10:20
I just saw this comment as I was looking for a way to reset my stats and this is perfect!! Thank you for this and the great app (and website)
By Juan September 27, 2019 - 11:19
My current Aptitude is at 17% and I have seen 30% of the the overall questions so far. I read your explanation of Aptitude but it is quite complicated, can you just tell us at what Aptitude level we should attempt the test. I still plan to going over all the flashcards at least once. Thanks
By kd7bbc September 27, 2019 - 14:53
if your aptitude is 17% and you have seen 30% then you have a 56% aptitude on the questions you’ve seen; in other words, you’re doing well =] It’s impossible to give you a “take it at __ aptitude” — there are a lot of different ways to look at that. Instead, I’d recommend studying until you’ve seen everything and then take a practice exam; see how you do on the exam and then study your weakest area for a bit. Repeat as needed until you’re consistently doing better than 80% on the practice exams and you will probably be fine.
By Rob September 30, 2019 - 15:08
First, I want to start by saying how much I love you guys for making the best study tool for ham licensing. Got my tech and general studying here, and now I’m studying for extra. I noticed while studying for extra, there is a question, E4-B10, out of the 4 possible answer choices, 2 are the same. This is also the correct answer. Not a huge issue, assuming that it is the correct answer. Also, if there is another wrong answer for the question on the actual test, it would be nice to see it. It does also skew the test score if you do happen to get this question on a practice test, and choose the wrong one (50% chance). Just thought I would bring that up. Thanks again!
By kd7bbc October 1, 2019 - 10:35
Actually, if you read super carefully you’ll find that they are not actually the same — you’re not the first to ask about that, though. The question is correct. The two answers you refer to one says “non-harmonically related audio” and the other says “non-harmonically related radio”. They are otherwise identical, so it’s very easy to miss.
By Gerard November 1, 2019 - 12:16
Is there a reason why the study question answers have random words bolded? It’s distracting and makes it harder to memorize the answers. (At least one study I’ve read confirms that inappropriate highlighting reduces recall.)
Other than that, great resource.
By kd7bbc November 13, 2019 - 15:36
The bolded words are words which only appear in the correct answer and do not appear in any of the distractors
By Mark January 9, 2020 - 19:40
I Love this site! Using the tools on this site helped me to get my Extra.
I might be in a position to help mentor some people toward getting their Tech, and I’m going to point them toward this resource to help them study. My question, are there any tools here that would allow me, with the approval of the people I’ll be mentoring, to monitor their progress?
By kd7bbc January 10, 2020 - 14:29
Using the hamstudy app (https://hamstudy.org/appstores) you can share your progress with other users or ask them to share their progress with you; use the “collaborate” button in the top right, you must be signed in to a hamstudy.org account for it to work.
By Jim Mueller April 26, 2020 - 21:11
If I go to “Study Mode” I can either log in or use it as a guest. I assume that if I use the guest mode it starts from zero each time I use it. That is, it doesn’t remember anything from any previous uses, sets the stats to zero, and asks questions at random without regard to how I answered them in the past. Right?
What if I log in? Does it remember all these things from previous sessions so that I get repeats of questions I missed and does it keep track of which questions I haven’t seen yet? To put it another way, do I have to go through it all in one sitting or can I come back as often as needed to get it all?
I just went through KB6NU’s highly recommended study guide and found it to be good. However, it only shows the correct answers to the questions. Your format of showing all the answers seems like a better way. Then I can figure out why the other answers were wrong; the explanations on the “back” of each flashcard help.
Good job. Thanks,
By kd7bbc April 26, 2020 - 22:31
Hi Jim,
Yes, if you are logged in then it not only keeps track of your study mode history and automatically repeats things, shows you new things, etc along with full stats, it also takes into account your practice exam history as well. If you use the mobile (ios and android) or desktop app (mac and win10 store only currently) you can sync your progress by signing into the same hamstudy account on all. You can switch back and forth at will.
I think KB6NU’s study guides are great, but I’m not convinced that they actually have more information than the explanations we have do; it’s funny, though, because we are frequently criticized for being too focused on memorization =] If you use it properly (and it sounds like you are) you can absolutely learn a lot.
Hope that helps!
73,
Richard
KD7BBC
By Jim Mueller April 29, 2020 - 23:05
Yesterday I tried to create a login to your site. I entered my email address and clicked the I accept button at the bottom of the page. I got a pink box that said I had to enter a valid email address. So I tried again thinking that I had made a typo. I got the same result. So I waited a day and tried today, entering my email address very carefully. Same result. I know the email address works, I get messages on it every day.
What am I doing wrong?
By kd7bbc April 30, 2020 - 00:37
Hi Jim,
Could you email me at helpdesk@hamstudy.org with details and/or a screenshot? I’ll see what I can figure out. We’ve had a lot of issues with people flagging confirmation emails as spam and having confirm emails bounce, so we’ve added some validation to try to help with that. It may be an issue with our system or something else, but if you contact us directly I can find out.
Richard
By Micaela May 8, 2020 - 16:14
Hi! Thanks so much for this study tool! I am interested in the online exam sessions. I am based in NJ; am I required to take a proctored exam that’s “based” in NJ?
By kd7bbc May 8, 2020 - 18:17
Fully remote exams can be administered from and to anywhere as long as all applicable FCC regulations and VEC rules are honored.
By Jim Mueller May 9, 2020 - 20:53
About a week ago I emailed the information you requested. Did you get it?
Today I tried again to create a login and again it failed just as before. So I tried a different email address and it worked. So the problem seems to be that the system doesn’t like certain email addresses even if they are valid.
By Simon Sutherland May 15, 2020 - 23:54
Hey, I love your tool. But I was hoping to register so I can track my progress… but your login link is returning 503 (at least on chrome 81 on macos but that shouldn’t matter)
I also tried to tried too leave this note under “Get help with HamStudy.org™” because that seemed more apprpos.. but https://jira.signalstuff.com/servicedesk/customer/portal/1 is also not loading, just getting “This page isn’t workingjira.signalstuff.com is currently unable to handle this request.
HTTP ERROR 503”
By kd7bbc May 16, 2020 - 11:40
is the login link still not working?
I’m trying to fix the portal, but it’s being a pain.
Richard
By Simon Sutherland May 17, 2020 - 01:53
I tried from the app on my ipad, and that worked. I don’t know if that route was better, or if it was just working when I tried again later. Thanx for the prompt reply.
BTW I got my Tech about 3 years ago, and this was the only study tool i used. It’s great. Whenever anyone asks about getting their license I recommend you. I’m working on General now
Cheers
By Dillon May 16, 2020 - 08:10
Hi. This site is awesome and helped me get my technical license and now I am working toward my general. One little suggestion I have is to change the bright neon green lettering you use to highlight the correct answer, to a color that is easier to see on a white background.
By Rik May 23, 2020 - 19:03
Using HamStudy in combination with the ARRL Study guides, I passed both the Technician and General exams in the past month. On initial review, I suspect it will take a bit more effort to pass the Extra exam, but it is on the cards for sure. Just uncertain if it will be the current or next edition questions.
By Dafroso Magbanua July 20, 2020 - 10:47
I have a valid GMDSS certificate, am I qualified to operate a Ham radio ashore? am I required to undergo training certification?
By kd7bbc July 21, 2020 - 10:21
In order to operate with Amateur Radio you need a valid Amateur Radio license. There are some other countries whose amateur radio licenses can be used in the US, but those are the only other licenses which can be used for the amateur radio service in the United States. In other countries I couldn’t tell you.
By Raymond September 9, 2020 - 07:53
Great App and site. I used this to study for my Tech. Provided an excellent result for me. This is very much like Anki flash cards. Started my General and should be able to do that just as easily and quickly now that I know how Hamstudy works.
By Laura September 17, 2020 - 10:46
How do I know what to study for? Which questions? I just want to legally be able to operate a ham radio and possibly broadcast.
By kd7bbc October 9, 2020 - 16:55
Hi Laura,
You might want to look on Youtube for some good introduction videos for ham radio; the first exam you’d need to pass is the Technician Exam, so those are the questions you’d study first. The exam is 35 questions randomly selected from a question pool with 35 sections for 11-14 questions each — total of 423 questions in the pool. You can find them all on hamstudy.org/ if you click on “Technician” along with explanations, but if you have no background you may want to find some other resources and not just study the questions — even with explanations they may not be enough.
By Fred Creel September 23, 2020 - 13:12
HELLO, I Am 89 years old. I have had my tec. ticket since the early 50’s. ( N5LYB ) but I have been out of ham radio for about 15 years and now I would like to upgrade to general class. My license is currant but my vision is failing. I can hardly read a computer screen any more .Please tell me what in your opinion would be the best way for me to proceed. Thanks
By kd7bbc October 9, 2020 - 16:52
Hi Fred. I would contact the VE team before registering and ask what they can do to help — most are willing to do an oral exam if that would help.
By Corbett Allen KO4EWD November 8, 2020 - 16:16
Studying for the Armature Extra now and when in study mode for a section, is there any way to reduce the repetitiveness of the repeated questions before moving on to the next set of questions. It seems like I go thru the same questions 15 times before it picks up the next set of questions and then it is over and over again. I understand that it programs into your mind but to get thru an entire section takes forever.
By kd7bbc November 21, 2020 - 13:43
Make sure that you don’t have it locked to a specific subelement, but as long as you are getting them right it should be giving you more questions.
By Eric November 21, 2020 - 13:18
Hello first time user (this site) and totally new to Ham Radio. So my current Overall Aptitude is at 45% and my Overall Seen is 81%. I really don’t understand the explanation of Aptitude and Overall which makes me feel like I am back in grade school first learning about a subject. What does this information say about my progress or lack thereof? Apologies if my question seems amateurish but at least you now know that I am truly inexperienced in this area. Thanks, Eric
By kd7bbc November 21, 2020 - 13:41
Hi Eric,
Aptitude is scaled to how much you’ve seen, so of what you’ve seen it’s calling you at about 55% — but to get 100% on a question you need to see and answer correctly 10 times. Thus you are doing just fine, but you haven’t seen the whole pool yet and then once you’ve seen them all you need to review some of it is all to really lock it in =]
By Mark Hancock December 20, 2020 - 13:17
I have heard the for the in-person tests, if you pass the Technician then you can move on and take the General at the same event (same for Advanced) and get as far as you can pass in on one day.
Is this the case for the online certifications too?
By kd7bbc December 21, 2020 - 04:58
That depends on the team, but most likely yes — however, if you expect that you will want to do this make sure you let the team know ahead of time so they plan enough time. Scheduling online/fully remote exams can be a tricky problem.
By Dan East November 27, 2021 - 10:10
This still isn’t clear to me. If I’m in Study mode (as opposed to Practice Exam mode), All Questions, and the OVERALL SEEN is 100%, does that mean I have seen every single question in the question pool that could appear on an actual exam? Thanks. BTW great resource.
By kd7bbc November 27, 2021 - 13:41
Yes, if you’ve seen 100% then you have seen everything that might appear. Aptitude is a weighted average of how you did on those, but will never exceed “% seen”, so if your aptitude on what you’d seen was 50% and you’d only seen 50% then “Seen” would be 50% and aptitude would be “25%”.
By Dan East December 10, 2021 - 06:52
Again, thanks for your great resource. However, I’m seeing some issues with the algorithms presenting questions. I did the following in the Extra Study mode:
Started at E1 and worked my way to E9 (I did E1-E8, then E0, then E9), doing 2-3 elements per sitting, over the course of a week. I only moved onto the next element when I had achieved 100% proficiency at 100% questions for the given element. So I did each element one at a time to 100%.
Once I had completed all 10 elements I then went to All Questions mode to practice amongst all element questions.
However, what I now see is primarily questions from E9, and I’m seeing the same questions repeated many, many times. I’ve answered some specific questions right but have still seen them 5 or 6 times. I will occasionally get questions as far back as E6, but I haven’t seen any at all from E1-E5. It’s like it is very, very heavily biased to the elements I did last, and for some reason keeps presenting some specific questions very often.
Because the All Questions mode no longer shows me anything from E1-E5 I’m going to have to manually go through those elements again individually to see any of those questions.
Also another anomaly. I have 100% aptitude in every element with 100% seen. However the All Questions mode shows 99% aptitude with 100% seen. Not sure if that gives any insight.
By Dan East December 10, 2021 - 20:25
I passed both General and Extra about two weeks apart with perfect scores. Thanks again for your website!
By Charles December 12, 2021 - 13:59
Would like to see I can reset the progress. I finished study for the exams and want to let my minor kid to use it on my devices and track the progress.
By Michael December 24, 2021 - 07:46
I need ham study off line for older iPad do you have an offline version that will work with it? I don’t want to take my new iPad out in bad places to study that might damage it don’t worry about old iPad. Any help will be appreciated I have ham study on new iPad.
By Tim January 4, 2022 - 09:51
Hi,
I am completely new to Ham radio and am just beginning to research how to get started. However, what I want to be able to do is use a radio in both the US and Europe. My wife’s family is from Spain and we spend at least half the year there. I’ve discovered there are reciprocal Ham radio agreements between the US and Spain, but I’m not sure what license I need and what I need to do once in Spain to make certain I’m operating legally? Many thanks in advance.
By Roberto January 13, 2022 - 20:26
Hi, there is somewhere a YT video that saids it is possible to get the ham radio licence for foreign countries, is it possible?
thanks
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phe3d2-se8A
By John January 29, 2022 - 16:40
I am studying for my Extra Class license. What a great tool you have created.
I propose a suggestion to self-evaluate the difficulty of the test questions for each individual.
One system that would help me is a way to zero in on my problem areas and exclude the answers I have deemed very easy. This suggestion will also let me keep a list of hard questions to study just before taking the test.
The way it can be implemented is to start with a list of every question number that can be displayed, then, remove every easy question number from the master list via a “TOO EASY” button next to the question. What that would accomplish is, if I see a question I know easily and there is almost no way I will get that question wrong on the test I can remove it from rotation and whittle down the “difficult Q list” until there are zero remaining in the list from the initial 500 Qs.
Presently, the way “super easy” questions are repeated is reassuring to get the answer quickly but it is a real waste of time when I can be studying my difficult Qs. Of course questions easy for you may be a struggle for me so removing easy Qs saves time after one feels the answer to the Q is easy and assured.
Also if that list of all question numbers can be resettable (on demand) that would be great once you’ve worked your way through the 500 Q pool and now want to go thru them a second time preparing for the test. So if in the end you have only 10 to 20 answers to Qs that allude you, you can memorize those answers or do the math just before you take the test and be fresh on those stickelers.
Please consider implementing this method. It can coexist with your present system without interference. It can be an alternate way of presenting the questions using your algorithm or self evaluated at the user’s choice.
Thank you, John
By Fernando February 11, 2022 - 21:19
hi, with the android app you can study in Spanish? Thank you
By kd7bbc February 28, 2022 - 13:00
Not yet, but we are working on it
By Hans March 5, 2022 - 09:55
In my opinion there is an error in your General exam(2019-2023).
Referring to the NCVEC website(www.ncvec.org/page.php?id=360) Question G3B08 is one of the withdrawn questions.
Your Exam still contains this question. Correct?
Best regards from Germany, Hans
By kd7bbc March 16, 2022 - 16:03
I checked with the NCVEC and that page is in error, G3B08 has not been withdrawn.
By KC4AL March 19, 2022 - 21:25
Hi Richard,
Could you please tell me if Element 7 has been updated with the new questions as of October 2021? Thank you.
By Amanda Debler April 1, 2022 - 06:14
HamStudy saw me through to 35/35 on the Technician exam, and is building my confidence for the General!
I see several other national exam question sets available – could you add info to this page for how you want us to go about adding other sets? I’m probably going to need to take Germany’s General-equivalent exams, and would be happy to put the question pools (if not explanations yet!) into HamStudy.
By JT Meade June 21, 2022 - 14:37
I have an ICOM IC-M710 on my boat. I sailed using the SSB nets from San Francisco to Mexico then Hawaii and back. What level do I have to achieve to be able to use the Ham frequencies for offshore sailing and maritime nets?
By Dennis D. Heaton July 3, 2022 - 15:10
I just opened the new (2022-2026?) HAMStudy questions, and found the practice exam flash cards — NEAT IDEA! However, for the last study block, I had downloaded and made a print-out of all the Technician practice questions, as I find myself riding in transport where the internet and mobile phone service are NOT available. I started to do this, and immediately found the reverse side prints out as an overlay *in reverse) even if the “hide” button is toggled. Is there a way to bypass this problem, or has this been done purposely. I have no intent on sharing these questions, ONLY for MY personal use. I did not take the exam yet, as I was unaware of the remote tests until this past June. Additionally, my clean room has NO WiFi service. Thanks.
By kd7bbc July 5, 2022 - 17:59
Ham is not an acronym, so it’s “HamStudy”, not “HAMStudy” 😉 On to things that actually matter, though, if you want to be able to study without internet access you’ll need to get the mobile app (which is $3.99 rather than free like the website). Note that right now it doesn’t come with the latest pool but you just need to open it when connected and you can download it. I’m working on getting an update out but some recent changes in iOS are making it annoying.
By David Bower July 12, 2022 - 10:02
I am a high school physics teacher (and ham operator, thanks to HamStudy.org!). I would really like to use the software that is behind this website for my students to study for the AP Physics Exam. Is there any way I could get the background on this to be able to create my own study tools? I know this is a bit “off-topic”…but it is a roundabout compliment for the effectiveness of your design and implementation of a great cut-to-the-chase learning methodology!
By Vern August 9, 2022 - 06:35
First of all, your methodology of this online HAM course is incredibly effective. Don’t change a thing.
But please add a couple of things, like:
A. The Study(FlashCard) dropdown gives you choices of ALL or (only) one of the sections.
It would be most helpful if you could choose more than one section to form your own pool that grows as you progress. For example, if I’m at section 5, I would like to have all five of the sections be mingled as flashcards so that I can work with what I have covered already, but not be inundated with questions from other sections that I haven’t covered yet.
Choosing the ALL option is silly at any point before you have actually covered ALL of the sections and is a waste of time before then.
By kd7bbc August 9, 2022 - 13:16
Hi Vern,
All of that is already supported in the app — while I may add more granularity to the website at some point, there do need to be *some* benefits to purchasing the app, don’t you think? 😉
I do have a desktop version of the app which is basically ready to release, but I haven’t finished the pieces needed for purchasing a license. See https://ham.study/appstores for current options, though.
– KD7BBC
By Vern August 11, 2022 - 08:50
“there do need to be *some* benefits to purchasing the app, don’t you think?
Ahh, you sneaky devil. LOL
And I get it. The only reason I didn’t know about what’s in the app is that, between my desktop and laptop, I progressed very quickly and didn’t even think about the app.
I would gladly purchase the desktop app to get the additional features, so get that ready real soon because I’m going to begin study for the Extra Class the day after I get my General.
I just want to add that in just 4 days, I completed all 10 of the General study/flashcard sections and am running at 99% to 100% aptitude due to your incredibly well designed teaching algorithms.
I am fully confident right now that I would pass my General Class test (I keep passing your random tests with 99% or better) and am quite impatient that I have to wait for the next available test session that’s 2 weeks and 2 days from now. I’ll keep running through the flashcards and doing practice tests all the way up to then of course.
You are doing God’s work here for the Ham community and you have my most sincere respect for what you have accomplished.
By Todd Reber August 24, 2022 - 18:58
I got my Aptitude level up to 82% on the Tech Study section, but the arrow for that level is still pointing down. What does that indicate and when does it start to point up?
FWIW – I think that I am quite ready to pass that test at this time, but I’m studying for the General now too since I’d like to get them both under my belt!
By Mark Sloan September 26, 2022 - 07:53
Hi Not sure how to report a problem with exam questions but on the Extra study mode, question E0-A02.
question has two exact same answers- “Ensure signals from your stations are less than the uncontrolled maximum permitted exposure (MPE) limits” but only one is correct if you select one its correct if you select the other same answer its wrong.
By Ray Bateman September 26, 2022 - 08:21
Read the answers very carefully they are all different. Specifically pay attention to the words “controlled” vs “uncontrolled” and “exposure” vs “emission”
By Luke Dyson December 6, 2022 - 13:40
Can someone make the E5-1 graph (Extra Exam) bigger or at least make the resistance values on the grid more readable? I tried screen capturing it and blowing it up, and they simply are not legible.
By Dick April 19, 2023 - 14:41
I have 2 accounts, one unused, can I delete one so I can put its email address on the other one?
By Carl Pockrus September 2, 2023 - 16:13
I was looking for a place to review. You know I refer people to Ham Study all the time. I have used it for the last time for the purpose of testing thank goodness. I passed my extra this morning. It has been very useable as well as entertaining for me. Thanks Richard and all those who support your efforts.
By Scott Stalker January 13, 2024 - 14:41
Thank you very much for this study resource. It is amazing!. I am currently studying for the 23-27 General Test. I have noticed that a couple of test questions appear to be missing. They are G1C08 and G1C10. I am wondering if these two questions are not on the actual test or if there is a glitch in the app. Thank you.
By Wolfgang Wittmann February 6, 2024 - 14:20
I am a radio amateur living near Sydney (Australia). I have an Australian call sign but no US call sign.
I am presently preparing to obtain an ARRL Extra Class License by following an Extra Class License online course managed by Tom Christovich, K3YH.
Trying to register for an online examination with the Volunteer Amateur Radio Group, I am facing the issue that I am not able to complete the HamStudy.org online registration form, as this form only accepts US addresses. Could you please advise how I can solve this issue.
By Peter Theberge February 8, 2024 - 13:43
Appreciate and have liked using this site. Started on another but then moved here when I found out about it. Passed Technician and General the same day. Here now for the Extra.
Improvement suggestions: 1. Aptitude – you admit that if we get to 100% we’ve spent way too much time doing this! That’s admitting the aptitude parameters are not helpful. Cut it down to last 3 times correct. And don’t base it off of an average of OTHER people’s responses. Example: I did flashcards of Element 1. 74 questions, I got 4-5 wrong. By the time I saw 100% of the questions and correctly answered again the ones I got wrong, my aptitude was only 65%?!? Make it more useable. 2. Flashcards dropdown menu: Allow multiple elements to be chosen, then an “apply” button would bring you to the flashcards. 3. I’d give the TESTS some of the features of the flashcards. The tests should be working THROUGH all the questions and bringing them back if incorrect. If they’re random, you could take 1000 tests and still not necessarily see all the questions! Sincerely, P.
By Sabra Ewing February 16, 2024 - 11:24
Why do you not allow image suppression for blind people on practice exams, when you acknowledge that this is an FCC approved accommodation that you allow for the real exam? Why is your website becoming less and less accessible including difficult use and unlabeled buttonss and other Web elements? The Hide distractors feature doesn’t seem to do anything. You probably have lots of charts and things to measure progress that are not accessible, that could be done as tables.
By John Viggiano February 18, 2024 - 15:37
Thank you, Richard, for this wonderful tool. (The last time I told you that was in person, before the pandemic!) I’m an instructor, and seem to recall there is a way to set up assignments for my students so the questions in each assignment would be ones covered in our textbooks (the ARRL manuals). Did I remember correctly? If so, please remind me how to do this. Thank you and 73!
By Rob Malerman April 6, 2024 - 09:55
On the schedule a test page, what time zone is the test time show in? The time zone local to the user or some other zone?
By Wim, PA3DJS July 27, 2024 - 08:23
How to get in contact with HamStudy? It seems difficult to find an email address. Best regards, Wim, PA3DJS
By Ben July 27, 2024 - 10:30
Feel free to send an email to support@hamstudy.org, we’ll see it and respond. Talk to you soon!
By Steve Huffman August 8, 2024 - 10:04
I need to cancel my scheduled exam for the upcoming weekend. How can I do this on your website? Thank you.
By Mike August 11, 2024 - 20:14
Is there an API to access the question pool? I want to write some code to play around with the questions and answers.
I like the website here, better than ARRL’s question website BTW.
Thanks in advance!
By David Cantrill August 25, 2024 - 15:58
I forgot my user name. How do I recover it.
By Lee August 28, 2024 - 11:41
I actually used both HamStudy.org and HamRadioPrep to get my Technicians and General certifications this year. One question is bugging me. I asked it of HamRadioPrep. But they have not gotten back to me. Can someone help me here? My question to them was.
G5B12 – What is the RMS voltage across a 50-ohm dummy load dissipating 1200 watts?
A – 173 volts
B – 245 volts
C – 692 volts
D – 346 volts
I realize the formula we would be working with is P = V(squared) / R. So, the math would be:
1200 = V(squared) / 50
60,000 = V(squared)
245 = V
My confusion is that the answer given by both you guys and HamStudy.org is 245 volts. My question, though, is why would it not be 173 volts? The question asks for RMS voltage, not peak voltage. It is my belief that Ohms Law and all of the derivative formulas are in peak voltage and not RMS voltage. I asked an electrical engineer friend. He agreed that the formula would be in peak values and not RMS values. I believe the question would have to specify that the stated power (1200 watts) and resistance (50 ohms) were RMS values in order for the resulting voltage to be an RMS value. Therefore, I believe you would have to still convert the voltage to RMS which would be:
245 volts x .707 = 173 volts
Please help me understand.
By SANGHUN PARK September 1, 2024 - 05:25
Hi, I’m Korean.
I don’t have U.S Citizenship but, can I roll in the test with passport?
By Juan Jimenez September 12, 2024 - 09:12
What is the point of letting students improve the explanation of an answer and then not allowing the student to save the changes for review after spending the time to do so? This is silly. It is even sillier that you do not provide a “Contact us” link.