A good start would be to search for a Master Minimum Equipment List or an Operator Minimum Equipment List for a typical transport aircraft such as the Boeing 737. Maybe try the FAA website.
The Preamble section of a typical MMEL or OMEL will have a lot of words which would help your research.
Then look at the content and you will see how various maintenance or operational procedures are invoked.
For how pilots check systems before dispatch, get hold of an Expanded or Training checklist, preferably for the same type aircraft, so you can compare.