Shou-wei hao-ma method

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The shou-wei hao-ma (首尾號碼) method is an IME, for computer entry of Chinese characters and related symbols.

It represents the first two and last two strokes as numbers 0-9, building a four-digit index number that enables a quick lookup. It is based completely on the structure of the character and not on any phonetic interpretation.

This method was popularized in Taiwan, with the publication of the Shou-Wei Hao-ma Dictionary (10.5 X 15 cm), authored by Chen Sun-Chi and published in 1964. This lookup method is one of the fastest for foreigners to grasp. It provides bo po mo fo phonetic, character phonetic/homophone, CTC #, definitions, radical and strokes, synonym and antonym and character phrases.