Shortwave Forum Bulletin

How to Write a Reception Log

Write about what you heard in your own words, just as you always have. The optional reception log fields make it easier to find reports on the same frequency and compare them in the bulletin. Fill in whatever you know.

• Frequency — Copy the frequency from your radio display, for example, 9740 kHz.
• Date and time — Use UTC if you know it. Local time is fine too. For example, write November 8, 8:15 p.m. Japan time.
• Reception location — A general area such as Kanagawa, Japan, or northern Taiwan is enough. If you used a remote receiver, give its location if you know it.
• What you heard — Even if the station is unknown, a detail such as a woman speaking followed by music can help others identify it. Links to recordings and YouTube videos are also included in the bulletin.

Sample report — November 8, around 8:15 p.m. Japan time, 9740 kHz, heard in Kanagawa, Japan. Unknown station. I heard a woman speaking, followed by music.