BW- the steps for me are:-
1) Ask them to spell it (sometimes more than once
)
2) Enter it as a waypoint in the FMC
3) That gives me a dotted line which I follow (expanding range if req'd) until I see the waypoint.
4) If it looks ok (especially if it is a shortcut
), discuss with other crew and execute the change; then rebuild the route (ask ATC if req'd)
Only gripes are:-
1) The proliferation of stupid computer generated waypoints
2) Changing my route in the FMC for Controller (1) to be given a freq change to Controller (2) who then insists I revert to original plan (waypoints now gone
)
If there is doubt about terrain/fuel etc, do not press the execute button until the query is resolved.