Studying for FAA PPL written exam

[jai6638]

Hello there..

I am currently using the Jeppesen textbook as well as the workbook ( which has multiple choice questions ) to study for the written. However, the Jeppessen textbook just doesn't do it for me and I find it hard reading more than 5-6 pages at a time. I wouldn't mind skipping the textbook and just doing the multiple choice questions ( which is what I sucessfully did for a few chapters ) but then I feel that by doing this, I might be missing out on some important information present in the textbook

I'd appreciate it if you guys could answer the following questions for me:

1) How did you study for your written?
2) What materials did you use?
3) How much time did it take for you to complete it?
4) What kind of studying routine/pattern did you follow?


Thanks

[flyboyike]

Do you have either the Jepp or the Gleim or the ASA PPL study guide?

[Astra driver]

go with the Gleim books, read every question and highlight the correct answer, you could even go so far as to black out the incorrect answers. Then when you are finished read each question and the highlighted correct answer again.

[jai6638]

Thanks for your responses.

Where would I get the ASA and Gleim books from?

[flyboyike]

Thanks for your responses.

Where would I get the ASA and Gleim books from?


www.sportys.com

[westhawk]

but then I feel that by doing this, I might be missing out on some important information present in the textbook

jai6638:

The above quote appears to indicate that you are concerned with more than just passing the knowledge test. That is wise. I suggest treating the study for the knowledge test as one issue and treat gaining the knowledge you know will be important to your future flying as another. So let's address the knowledge test first.

I highly recommend the Gleim private pilot knowledge test study guide. It is organized into sections which first provide a short primer on the subject areas covered in the section. Then a series of questions from the question bank which is related only to the subect areas covered in that section is given. Answer each question according to what you have just read. An explanation of why each multiple choice answer is correct or incorrect is provided on the right hand side of the page, so no page flipping is required. A piece of paper should be used to cover the answers until you have selected an answer choice.

A much fuller explanation of the suggested study guide usage is provided in the front of the book. It is best to complete one section at each sitting. Once all sections have been completed, take the full practice test. Use the knowledge codes for the missed questions to correct those answers and if necessary, re-study any weak areas. Dr. Gleim suggests setting a date for the knowledge test and planning your study schedule to complete the process just prior to that date. I personally feel that this interval should be fairly short term, perhaps two weeks or less. Adjust it as necessary according to your schedule and study habits, but remember that details learned quickly have a short shelf life if not supported by conceptual understanding.

If you are allready flying and need to get the test out of the way to continue, then this is an effective means to get it done. Get that done and then address the issue of gaining a more conceptual understanding. For a more in-depth knowledge of the subject areas covered by the knowledge and flight test, many good books are available. For someone who finds the Jeppesen text a little dry, I highly recommend The student pilots flight manual by William Kershner. (google it!) This is more of a tutorial than a textbook, but covers most of the same ground, only from a more practical perspective. He uses his 50+ years of teaching experience to present the basics of flying in an interesting and straightforward style that holds the interest of even the most easily bored reader. Many of my students benefitted greatly by reading this book. I feel as though I have flown with him even though I have never met the man! A "must read" for every student pilot, even after they've tried to read the others.

So knock out the Gleim book in two weeks or less and get that test done! Read the Kershner book as you progress through flight training. The more time and effort spent studying and thinking about flying while you're on the ground, the more productive the flight training tends to be. At least that's been my experience. Enjoy your studying and training!

Best regards,

Westhawk

[jai6638]

Thanks for your response. Will definately try and get both books.