There is one thing, besides instrument work, that MSFS does really well. It is absolutely outstanding as a procedure trainer. For pattern work, for example, with 50 patterns in the sim, for free, you will know the checklists and procedures in your sleep (get a third party aircraft identical to the one you're training on though). For real life pattern work, certainly
not free
, you can then focus on the actual flying, without the distraction of trying to learn the procedures at the same time. Of course, this is best done
after the first pattern lesson, not before...
Same thing with all other procedures, notably emergency checklists.
Saved me hours of pattern work during my training, and helps me stay sharp on procedures and checklists afterwards.
I find it helps to use the autopilot as much as possible in the sim, and keeping a mindset that you are not doing any kind of stick and rudder work. You are just moving the simulated airplane around so you can practice your procedures.