Deep Dive: T2A05
The correct answer is C: Transmit the other station's call sign followed by your call sign. This is the standard procedure for responding to a station calling CQ. You acknowledge the calling station by repeating their call sign, then identify yourself with your call sign. This format ensures the calling station knows you're responding to them specifically, and it clearly identifies who is responding. The format is: '[Their call sign], this is [Your call sign].' This is the universal way to answer a CQ call and is used on all bands and modes. It's clear, professional, and follows international amateur radio operating procedures.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. You don't repeat 'CQ' when responding. CQ is only used by the station calling, not by those responding. Option B: Incorrect. This reverses the proper order. You should say their call sign first, then yours, not yours first. Option D: Incorrect. While you'll exchange signal reports, you don't start with a signal report. You start by acknowledging their call sign, then identifying yourself.
Exam Tip
Answer CQ = Their call, then yours. Remember: When responding to CQ, say the calling station's call sign first, then your own. This is the standard format worldwide.
Memory Aid
**A**nswer **C**Q = **A**cknowledge **C**aller **T**hen **Y**ourself (think 'AC = ACTY')
Real-World Example
You hear 'CQ CQ CQ, this is Whiskey One Alpha Bravo Charlie' on 146.52 MHz. You respond: 'Whiskey One Alpha Bravo Charlie, this is Kilo Alpha One Bravo Charlie.' This acknowledges you heard their call and clearly identifies yourself as the responding station.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool
Subelement: T2A
Reference: FCC Part 97.119
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T2A topic.