Navigation: keep track, heading, time and fuel distinct
Navigation is a sequence of estimates followed by checks. Begin with a current chart and identify the departure, destination, terrain, airspace and practical diversion options. Draw a route that can be flown safely rather than merely connecting two points with the shortest line. Measure the true track and distance, then record the altitude and checkpoints you intend to use. A conspicuous river junction or road intersection can be more useful than an isolated feature that looks similar to several nearby features.
Keep four directions separate. Track describes the path over the ground. Heading describes where the aircraft's nose points. Wind correction makes those directions different. Magnetic variation relates true north to magnetic north, while compass deviation is an aircraft-specific compass error. Write the type of direction beside each value. Confusing a magnetic bearing with a true heading can create an apparently reasonable calculation that sends the aircraft away from its route.
Use units deliberately. Groundspeed determines time over the ground; true airspeed describes movement through the airmass. For a distance in nautical miles and groundspeed in knots, time in hours equals distance divided by groundspeed. Multiply by sixty only when converting hours to minutes. Fuel used equals consumption rate multiplied by elapsed time in the matching units. Add climb, taxi and other allowances when the data require them, and retain the applicable reserve separately from fuel planned to be consumed.
During flight, compare predicted checkpoint times with observations. An unexpected late arrival can indicate lower groundspeed, a wind error, an incorrect position or some combination. Confirm where you are before applying a correction. One weak visual resemblance is not enough; compare several chart features and their geometry. Avoid prolonged heads-down troubleshooting. Maintain aircraft control and an effective lookout while using navigation equipment.
Electronic navigation is useful when treated as another source of information rather than an unquestionable authority. Verify the selected waypoint, database suitability, route and coordinate format. A GPS direct-to line may cross restricted airspace or unsuitable terrain. Keep a practical backup and know how to request assistance before uncertainty becomes an emergency. For written calculations, estimate the answer first: a strong headwind should increase time, and an increased fuel flow should reduce endurance. A result with the opposite trend needs checking.