I cannot begin to tell you how important checklist items are when flying. Even the most seasoned pilots forget to push the props forward when landing or even put the gear down (I’ve seen it). It is important to understand that mnemonics are not a substitute for checklists, but rather an aid. During private pilot training your instructor may have taught you many of the common mnemonics such as ARROW (Airworthiness certificate, Registration, FCC Radio station license, Operating limitations, and Weight/Balance), which is the acronym for the required documents that must be in the airplane at all times. During instrument training pilots begin to receive IFR clearances by Air Traffic Control so my instructor taught me CRAFT (Cleared, Route, Altitude, Frequency, Transponder code) to help me quickly write down this information. I’ve compiled a list of these useful acronyms and phrases so that you too can benefit from the most common mistakes.

• CIGAR – (Prior to taking off): Controls, Instruments, Gas, Attitude (trim), Run-up.
• BLT – (Prior to takeoff): Boost pump, Lights, Transponder
• GUMPS – (Prior to landing): Undercarriage, Mixture, Props, Seatbelts.
• TTTTT – (For holding): Time, Turn, Twist (the OBS), Throttle (reduce power), Talk (announce entering hold).
• ANDS – (Compass errors): Accelerate North. Decelerate South.
• TOMATO FLAMES – (VFR equipment): Tachometer, Oil pressure gauge, Manifold pressure gauge, Airspeed indicator, Temperature gauge (each liquid cooled engine), Oil temperature gauge, Fuel gauge, Landing gear position indicator, Altimeter, Magnetic compass, Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), Seat belts.
• FLAPS – (Night VFR): Fuses, Landing light, Anti-collision lights, Position indicator lights, Source of power.

Many pilots come up with their own acronyms to aid in memorization. I’ve heard many that include vulgarities that I won’t list here, but seem very effective! It will boil down to whatever works for you.