memorizing codes

[sloppy joe]

Start with 10 flash cards, when you memorize those 10 add 5 more to the batch. Don't add more until you got the cards memorized. Make sure you are studying your depts codes and not some generic codes.

[Sam .223]

thanks for the responses, i did make out flash cards for the 10 codes on the department list, i'm currently studying the first 8 and having my wife quiz me on them. she said to try and use them in everyday conversations with her but it seems weird using codes for everyday topics, plus some don't transition well into everyday conversation, not to mention the weird looks you get when using code while in say a store. i haven't had to study for quite a few years now so this is going to take some getting used to.

[SVT-40]

While driving start "narrative talking" in ten codes about what you see, as if you were describing what you see to other officers or dispatch...

[John M]

Not all the 10 codes are the same, and many agencies use 9 or 11 codes in addition to 10 codes, so first ensure whatever agency you work for, or want to work for use the codes you are learing. Other than that, flash cards and listening to the scanner are the best. Once you start using them, it will become second nature.

[CBR_rider]

While driving start "narrative talking" in ten codes about what you see, as if you were describing what you see to other officers or dispatch...

Yup; do that while driving around town or even while out for a run. If you don't mind being a bit of a dork with a family member/friend; have them periodically give you a cue to immediately start narrating a broadcast of a chase/traffic stop/whatever while you drive around so you can't plan it ahead.

[razorscs]

In the academy I would make audio tapes and listen to them in the car.

I didn't do this, but that sounds like a really excellent idea. Hearing yourself saying them and saying them out loud along with the tape sounds like an excellent method.

[Sam .223]

thanks for the tips, i'm currently using the flash cards i made and writing the codes down with their meaning as i say it out loud, seems to be working, i'll try out the audio recording and see if that works better. the codes i have are from the department i'm going to the academy for, my background investigator gave the list to me to start studying, so i have the correct codes for the department i'm going to work for.

[Just-in]

If you do not know it already, I respectfully suggest learning the phonetic alphabet as well.

I taught myself using license plates and street signs.

[capeman]

I used Study Droid for flash carding. Memorized them all in order then tested in random until 100% at least 3 times a week. I think I missed only 3 out of several hundred on all of the quizzes.

My wife went the voice recorder route and did only slightly worse.

[IrishJoe3]

I taught myself using license plates and street signs.

Exactly how I did. Made a game of it; to spell a street sign phonetically before I drove past the sign.

Regarding 10 codes. Flash cards. Simply rote memorization. It sucked.

[bk23103]

Flash cards, and using the codes as you're driving down the street talking to yourself. I've noticed that a lot of folks have issue with context - as in they know what the code means, but not how it's used. Listen to your agency's scanner traffic to get a better idea of the language of your department.