BasicB-002-003-011
When calling a specific station on voice, what is the preferred format for your transmission?
C
Answer
Licensing, station identification, and operation
Type
A
Your call sign, followed by "calling" and the call sign of the desired station
B
CQ, CQ, CQ followed by the call sign of the desired station
C
The call sign of the desired station, followed by "this is" and your call sign
D
Your call sign repeated twice, the word "for" and the call sign of the desired station
Answer Notes
The standard and most efficient way to initiate contact with a specific station is to state their call sign first, followed by the words "this is", and then your own call sign. For example, "W1AW, this is VE3ABC".
This format immediately alerts the receiving station that they are the intended recipient, catching their attention right away. Stating your call sign afterward lets them know exactly who is calling so they can properly reply.
Using "CQ" is incorrect in this scenario because CQ is a general call to anyone listening, not a specific station. Reversing the order (saying your call sign first) is a common mistake that breaks the rhythm of standard radio etiquette.
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