Admittedly it was a long time ago when I did my CPL and ATPL writtens, but I will never forget the technique I used. Of course it is probably different today, but when I did mine I requested self study: ie the course materials, end of topic questions and revision papers are sent with all the answers, so you don't send your answer sheets back for marking, you do it yourself. I remember that Avigation gave me a discount for this service, but PPSC (RIP) didn't. Of course both organisations were happy to deal with either written or telephone queries.
Having elected to use this system when stydying the fuel consumption exercise at constant TAS, I can to this day vividly remember sitting in an armchair with the questions on one arm, the answers on the other and a pad and calculator on my knee trying to turn the numbers in the question into the numbers in the answer. After many attempts, I succeeded and then proceeded to confirm that I had discovered the correct method by doing all the other questions in the same way. This technique is not possible if you are using postal tuition! Indeed, by the time you get the marked question sheet back, you will have forgotton what (wrong) method you used so will be little further forward with your studies!
I can also remember having a problem (or two) with Met. In those days my local airfield had its own met. office complete with forecasters. They were only two pleased to help me with my Met queries when I went to see them - happy days!
I never wrote out notes, I read them again and again. I can also remember that I used to start a new topic by reading the text several times - it usually made no sense. Then I would put the book down and go for a walk to think about it. A little realisation would dawn and I would go back to read the text again. Then I would look at the questions and by the time I had read the text a few more times, done the exercises and marked them, I was usually satisfied that I had understood the topic. You have to be very strong willed though! If you cheat, you are only cheating yourself and think of the enormous exam fee you will waste!
I would add that there are almost as many different study techniques as there are exam candidates and you have to find a method which suits you. I had behind me four years of university degree experience plus many years at the chalkface in a classroom before I started which I suppose gave me a bit of an advantage.
I got first time passes.
All the best with your studying!
P.P.
Last edited by P.Pilcher; 26th October 2002 at 10:29.