How to Make a Code Wheel

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Last Updated: August 31, 2023

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Create a code wheel to easily translate between letters using a Caesar Cipher.

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   1
   You need two concentric circles (one circle should be larger than the other). Punch a hole in the middle of both and attach with a brass fastener so the top wheel (the smaller one) can move independent of the bottom wheel.
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   2
   Drawing over the entire circle, divide into 26 sections. Use a protractor to get each segment the same size -- they should be about 13.8 degrees each
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   3
   Write the letters of the alphabet, in order, on both circles.
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   4
   To use, determine a number to use a cipher, for example: 4.
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   5
   Turn the inner wheel that number of turns (so A >> E, B >> F, etc). When writing the letter, look at the inner wheel and write down the letter that is matched on the outer wheel.
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   6
   For additional complexity, use a cipher that changes on each letter (such as the digits of π or the numerical digits of a sentence).
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• Question

  Can I use number code instead of alphabet?

  

  Community Answer

  No because unless you pre-coded, you will just have numbers that mean nothing.

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• Question

  How do I decipher numerical codes? Do I search for the most common ones?

  

  Community Answer

  Make the inner ones in the smaller circle numbers 1-26 instead of letters. Make sure they are still at the same angle or if everything to be numbers, just replace everything with numbers 1-26.

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  Thank you for your feedback.
  If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow

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  Not Helpful 8 Helpful 17
• Question

  What if I don't have a protractor?

  

  Donagan

  Top Answerer

  Use a drawing compass or a pot lid.

  Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
  Thank you for your feedback.
  If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow

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Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• 2 paper plates or construction paper
• A pencil, pen, or marker
• Paper piercer
• A brad
• A ruler.