In a previous article, we discussed effective study strategies. Now we’d like to give you essential tools that can be used to implement those study strategies.
AnkiWeb Flashcards (AnkiWeb.net)
We STRONGLY recommend AnkiWeb. AnkiWeb has a website, several IOS apps, and several Android apps. This flashcard system has a unique feature that lets you select how well you remembered a flashcard, using this information Anki will continue to show you stuff you struggle with, and show you less of what you already know.
As you already know, becoming a pilot requires a massive amount of information. Once you master something, it will become a waste of time reviewing it repeatedly when you could be focusing on what you are really struggling with.
Anki is also free. You can add images, and style text within flashcards. I used this app during my airline training, which was a lifesaver.
Observation Flights
We are happy to offer observation flights to our students. Take a look at our schedule and reach out to an instructor before their lesson and ask if you can join. This is at no extra cost. You get to sit in the back while one of our instructors is teaching a flight lesson. Just don’t forget to take notes.
Aircraft Operating Handbook Study
Before flying any new airplane, I always read the entirety of the operating manual. An aircraft is a form of heavy machinery, and before operating heavy machinery, it is a good idea to read the manual.
When reading the operating handbook, be sure to take notes on anything you think may be important. We provide a fill-in-the-blank spreadsheet that will help you quickly learn any new aircraft.
Gold Seal Online Ground School (pilotrise.GroundSchool.com)
We recommend using Gold Seal Online Ground for your Private Pilot Certificate and Instrument Rating. It will help you prepare for the written tests & the oral exam.
Pilot Approach Instrument Simulator (PilotApproach.com)
When working on your Instrument Rating or ATP, we recommend using PilotApproach.com. This is an online instrument approach simulator that will guide you through approaches and tell you when you make mistakes.
Sheppard Air Written Test Prep (SheppardAir.com)
For any written test after your Private Pilot Certificate, we highly recommend Sheppard Air. Their study methods will help you ace any FAA written test.
Voice Memos / Voice Recorder
During a ground lesson, you may use a voice recorder to record what your instructor teaches you. You can go back and review the information.
Go Pro During Lessons
If you have a Go Pro camera, feel free to set it up inside any of our aircraft. Most of our aircraft have a Go Pro attachment available. You can use this to look back on your lesson and review your mistakes.
Read the AIM
The Airman Information Manual has so much useful information in it. Take some time to go through it. It will be well worth it (especially if you take notes).
Use the Materials Provided
We provide many training materials & training documents that simplify & organize vast amounts of information. Use my knowledge, I beg you.
ForeFlight Documents
ForeFlight lets you store PDFs within the app. This is a great way to stay organized and store important reference material. We recommend keeping a copy of your aircraft manual, aircraft checklist, weight and balance form, and the syllabus in ForeFlight for easy access.