How to Write in Secret Code

Cryptology, or secret communication, has been around almost since writing began. Computers continue to use secret codes, called encryption, to protect against identity theft. Writing messages in code can be a fun way to write notes to your friends. One way to write in code is to use a simple code known as "OB1," or "off by one."

Instructions

Computer Keyboard OB1 for Touch Typists

1. Place your fingers one row above or below the home row. Instead of resting your fingers on ASDF/JKL;, you will be resting them on either QWER/UIOP or ZXCV/M,./.

2. Type your message as though your fingers were resting on the correct keys.

3. Deliver, email or send your message to the intended recipient.

Pen & Paper OB1

1. Write the alphabet, A to Z, on a sheet of paper. Be sure that your message is written on a different page, and do not enclose your code alphabet with the message.

2. Write your coded message on a different sheet of paper, substituting B for A, C for B, and so forth.

3. Deliver or send your message to the intended recipient.

Pen & Paper Backwards Code

1. Write the alphabet, A to Z, on a sheet of paper.

2. Write the alphabet backwards below the A to Z format.

3. On a separate sheet of paper, write your coded message, using the backwards letters as substitutes for those above. Write Z for A, Y for B, X for C, and so forth.

4. Deliver or send your message to the intended recipient.

Tips & Warnings

• If you receive a coded message from someone and cannot easily figure out the code, start with the smallest words, such as 1-letter or 3-letter words. Typically, 1-letter words will be "a" or "I," and 3-letter words will be "and," "you" or "the."

References

• Codes, Ciphers, and Secret Language