How many times has your instructor told you to use a checklist? Hopefully it happens often. There’s no doubt checklists are life savers—literally. But, next time, consider throwing out the checklist, at least for now.
Instead of referring to the checklist as a to-do list, complete what you think are the correct steps first, and then refer to the checklist only to make sure you have done it all. Start easy, maybe with the cruise checklist, and then work your way up to the before-takeoff check.
By using a defined flow pattern, usually bottom up and right to left, you’ll be amazed at how much you’ll remember. Or you can use an acronym such as CIGAR (controls, instruments, gas, attitude or trim, and run up).
Far from being just a fun challenge, using the list as a checklist and not a to-do list can make you more in touch with the airplane and quicken your thinking.
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