I've bought 'The FI's Patter Manual' and 'You Have Control' so now to my question, any tips or tricks of the trade from you guys (and gals) who have already been in this position - did it seem like an insurmountable hill to any of you early on and how did you get it all to work out?
Simple one this........If you read books on the side then it will feel like an insurmountable hill so do not read anything whilst completing the course. Listen to your FI Instructor and just follow his briefs and flying lessons. Then when you pass and get on line as an instructor then that is the time to dip into helpful books such as the ones you have mentioned.
Good luck, ditch the private reading and all will become clear
