An orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) transmitter method, consistent with certain embodiments of the present invention arranges OFDM data symbols representing data bits for transmission in a packet. A prescribed pattern of OFDM data symbols are removed (212) and replaced (216) with pilot symbols. The packet is then transmitted (220) to an OFDM receiver that receives the packet (224) and determines a channel correction factor from the pilot pattern. The receiver then estimates a plurality of channel correction factors, one for each of the plurality of OFDM symbols representing data (228) and uses these correction factors to correct the OFDM symbols representing data (232). Arbitrary data are then inserted in place of the pilot symbols (236). The OFDM symbols representing data along with the arbitrary data are then decoded using an error correction decoder that corrects the errors induced by substitution of the pilot symbols for data symbols (240).