To the original question...
I'd always recommend a checklist. I use a modified version of the Kirk Kenton 182Q checklist (see link). Its printed as a two sided A4 laminated sheet with normal stuff on one side and all the emergency stuff on the other.
Free Cessna 182RG Skylane Checklists to Download
Two good reasons I use them are:
1. I do forget things rather more than I would like to admit.
2. When carrying passengers in the front seat, I give them a copy of the checklist and ask them to follow me through as we go through the checks. I hope it conveys a degree of professionalism.
And the third of two is that I've got all the emergency stuff to hand....after all, if you do get a fire in the wing