Logbook Life

Introduction

The Instrument Rating checkride is one of the most challenging milestones in a pilot’s training. It’s not just about flying the airplane, it’s about mastering procedures, decision-making, and proving you can safely operate in the clouds. Having been through it (and trained others for it), here are five things I believe every instrument student should know before checkride day.

1. It’s About Procedures, Not Perfection

Examiners expect solid IFR procedure knowledge more than flawless flying.  They want to see you can brief an approach, set up correctly, and fly safely even if you make small corrections.

Tip: Focus on “staying ahead of the airplane” — procedures matter more than being “on rails.”

2. Approach Briefings Are Critical

A common weak point: students rush into an approach without fully briefing it.  Your examiner wants to see that you understand the plan: altitudes, frequencies, missed approach procedure.

Tip: Use a structured briefing format (like the 5-Ts or “ABCD” method) to stay consistent.

3. Partial Panel Is About Judgment, Not Just Skill

Many students dread partial panel work. But the check is not about being perfect, it’s about safe decision-making.  Recognize errors early, keep the scan moving, and use backup instruments confidently.

Tip: If things start to unravel, show composure and communicate. Examiners value how you “handle pressure”.

4. Don’t Forget the Oral Exam Depth

The IFR oral goes beyond basics: expect questions on weather interpretation, alternate requirements, and IFR regulations.  Many students underestimate this part.

Tip: Be ready to explain “why” you make certain decisions, not just the rule itself.

5. Confidence Comes from Repetition in Realism

Simulator time and practice flights build muscle memory — the more realistic your training, the calmer you’ll be.  Don’t just practice approaches in perfect weather; ask your instructor to simulate realistic IFR challenges.

Tip:The more you’ve flown “what-if” scenarios, the less rattled you’ll be when the examiner throws a curveball.

Conclusion

The instrument checkride is designed to prove you can think, plan, and fly like an IFR pilot — not to trick you or demand perfection. Go in with procedures sharp, judgment sound, and confidence in your training. By the time your instructor signs you off, you’re ready.

Sign-Off:

From my logbook to yours — stay safe, and let’s fly.– Tommy J.