FAA Instrument Rating study plan

Build a one-page instrument weather decision matrix covering ceiling, visibility, icing, convective, and wind limits, then apply it to five forecast scenarios

Decode and annotate three real METAR/TAF/PIREP sets, translating every contraction and remark into plain language

Diagram the four legs of a standard instrument departure and label where obstacle clearance and climb gradients are guaranteed

State the currency and recency requirements for instrument experience and approaches in your own words without notes

Copy and explain the elements of a full IFR clearance (CRAFT) using two sample clearances

Interpret alternate minimums, takeoff minimums, and diverse departure criteria for six airports using only textual chart data you transcribe yourself

Compute fuel, alternate, and hold fuel reserves for three cross-country profiles with different winds and temperatures

Parse SID and STAR textual descriptions and write the expected route, crossing restrictions, and frequencies for each

Explain the difference between a clearance void time and a release time and describe the pilot actions required for each

Identify the five most common pilot deviations in the terminal environment and the defense against each

Read back ten scripted ATC clearances verbatim, including hold short, crossing, and amended routing instructions

Set up a full IFR cockpit flow from cold dark to takeoff clearance, verbalizing each checklist item and its reason

Describe the procedure for obtaining and cancelling an IFR clearance in the air and on the ground at a non-towered field

Explain lost-communication procedures for both VFR and IFR conditions and identify the route, altitude, and timing rules

Practice copying a clearance using shorthand and transcribe it accurately from memory after a 30-second delay

Perform and describe the four fundamentals (straight-and-level, turns, climbs, descents) solely by reference to instruments using a training device or simulator

Demonstrate and explain the scan technique for partial-panel flight, naming the backup instruments for each failed gauge

Execute unusual attitude recoveries (nose high and nose low) and state the instrument indications that trigger each recovery

Configure and brief an instrument approach from the initial approach fix to the missed approach point, including the descent and approach checklists

Identify the five hazardous attitudes and apply the antidote to two instrument-flight scenarios

Fly and narrate three different approach types (precision, non-precision, and circling) from the IAF to landing or missed approach

Hold at a fix using both direct and parallel entries, and state the wind-correction and timing rules for each

Explain the components of an instrument approach chart and identify the minimums, missed approach, and lighting for three charts

Describe the stabilized approach criteria and the decision points for executing a missed approach

Practice partial-panel approach flying and state which instruments remain reliable after a vacuum or pitot failure

Perform a full instrument cockpit preflight and departure briefing using a written script, timed to under five minutes

Demonstrate emergency descent, engine-out, and system-failure procedures by reference to instruments only

Explain the hazards of spatial disorientation and identify the illusions most likely during an instrument departure and approach

Set up and interpret the autopilot and flight director modes used during an instrument approach, and state the failure modes to monitor

Review and correct any recurring errors from the prior two simulator sessions

Complete two full mock oral exams covering weather, clearances, approach charts, and systems, scoring each answer against the standards

Fly two full mock instrument practical tests from preflight to shutdown with a safety pilot or instructor

Identify and drill the three weakest task areas from the mock sessions until each is performed without prompting

Re-derive the currency, recency, and alternate-requirement rules from memory and verify against your reference sheet

Re-fly every previously deficient task to standard and document the result

Complete a final full mock practical test with no instructor prompting on any required task

Review the aeronautical knowledge areas one final time, focusing only on items previously missed

Confirm all documentation, currency, and aircraft equipment requirements are satisfied before scheduling the checkride