All approaches flown VMC
1) Descent from cruise is a non-event
Approach stability is hard work. Judging the height above or below the approach path is particularly hard work as I don’t realise at first that I am deviating. Perception of runway alignment is easy as you can see that the rwy centre line should be vertical. Keeping that line vertical is something I find hard, particularly in a crosswind when the nose does not line up with the runway heading. The flare is still impossible for me in any crosswind.
2) Descending turn from base to final to arrive at height, heading & airspeed, whilst maintaining a visual lookout and radio awareness.
3)
High workload: Manual control
Scanning + monitoring
Low workload: ATC
Flight management tasks should be complete by the end of the downwind leg.
4) I find general pilot workload is increased by general stress caused by non flying tasks. E.g. pre-flight under time pressure. Refuelling from the (busy) pump. Documentation. Bad car journey to the airfield etc. etc. …..
I’m a PPL student with approx 15 hours. I responded to your post as I thought it might help me crystallise my thoughts about the way my studies are going. It took me half an hour. You may have more success if you approach your nearest flying club or an airline. These questions would be easier if asked in person to a large sample of pilots.
Sorry I can’t be more helpful. Good luck with your course.