Thanks BPF for that excellent post, this is where Prune shines, disseminating years of experience to guys like me.
A few observations from a relative power novice who is quite happy to be corrected:
I was always taught to lean from the very first flight powered flight I had, don't know whether that's unusual or not. Something I always do when cruising regardless of altitude.
Gertrude makes the point of not checking the fuel on a walkround/second flight; it's something I think is the most important thing to do besides the oil. Takes seconds even on a Cessna.
I always run my fingertips (after checking mags etc) along the prop blade with a light touch, no point putting pressure on. Fingertips are ubersensitive, if there's anything there you're going to feel it.
Try and have some mechanical empathy, a/c will talk to you if you listen. I've flown with pilots with lots more hours than me who make me cringe; not particularly in their flying skills but more in the 'I wish you wouldn't do that to this machine' way.
Thinking about a recent thread, if you can't judge a circuit by the look of it instead of performing calculus in your head then get some more instruction.
Look out of the bloody window instead of in at the latest must have gizmo. The pilot you're going to share an accident report with is in another a/c; and he's just lurking around waiting for you to fiddle with your bits.
I know this is a bit off the wall but I think that anyone wanting a PPL should go to solo standard on a glider first. I must also add that I think anyone wanting to drive a car should complete a motorcycle course first; and if you have to ask me why then you're probably the person who needs to do a motorcycle course..
