GRP
Trim figures twice in mental checks:
1. After unlocking subject aircraft, wind trim fully back and fully forward while observing the tab, which is more easily seen from outside the aircraft. Leave trim in take off position.Rest of pre flights follow.
2. Pretakeoff checks TTMMPPFFGGHH and anything you care to add, trim set for takeoff is the first item.
Written check lists have their uses when dealing with unfamiliar aircraft, used in conjunction with the aircraft manual, but in my experience are disruptive when single pilot on familiar types.
Each to his own of course.