We have been using mnemonic tools since learning the alphabet by singing the letters. In aviation, there are many mnemonic devices widely used among pilots, and maybe you have even created some of your own during your training. For example, to remember which color light is on each wingtip I remember that green and right have more letters than red and left. Some pilots remember “green is right.”

When learning the VFR cruising altitudes, I at first found it difficult to remember if the odd thousand-foot altitudes were for eastbound or westbound flights. So, I recited “odd people fly east,” and I still use that memory aid today. I find it humorous because I have always lived in the eastern United States.

Before each flight as a student pilot, my instructor would say “lights, camera, action” as a reminder to turn the lights on and set the transponder to ALT (camera) before taxiing onto the runway for takeoff (action).

To remember which documents are required to be on an aircraft, just remember “ARROW,” which stands for airworthiness certificate, radio license (international flights only), registration, operating manual, and weight and balance.

Another commonly used mnemonic is GUMPS, which is a before-landing checklist. It stands for gas, undercarriage, mixture, propeller, and seat belts and switches.

Instrument-rated pilots are very familiar with the acronym that we learned as students to ensure all elements of a clearance are received. The items are clearance limit, route, altitude, frequency, and transponder. The first letter of each item spells CRAFT.

Mnemonic devices are clearly helpful as a way to recall things that need to be committed to memory. They don’t explain the why and how of flying, but there is so much information to retain in flight training that anything that helps with recalling that information should be used and shared. When you create your own memory aids, share them with your flying club members, flight instructor, and other pilots you know. Your mnemonic might just catch on!