With reference to the cabin rate of climb. If you are unpressurised, the cabin is still going to climb. My technique is to also look at the differential pressure indication, it's also easier because it is a big dial. When clean at about 3000' the diff will be about 2 psi. At 10000' the diff is about 4 psi. To me it's like a big analogue clock. When clean I want to see ten past twelve. At 10000' I'm looking for twenty past twelve. At 20000' it's about 7 psi or twenty to two.
My other pet hate is not calling the FMA correctly. LVL CHG is the button you press on the MCP. MCP SPD is the pitch mode that is engaged. Same for VNAV. VNAV what? VNAV SPD or VNAV PTH. Announce the FMA.