The perfect course in any subject is one that does not require examinations of any type to successfully complete it. Unfortunately successfully obtaining your Pilots license does not come into this category.

To begin with, before you can even think of flying you need to have a good sound knowledge of the theory behind it. Although we like to think so, it is not just a matter of flying on autopilot. If that were the case then we wouldn't even need Pilots.

There is extensive material to be covered and studied during flight training school. It is extensive but not very difficult if one makes up their mind to develop good study habits. Every country has their own standards, rules, and regulations for obtaining pilot licenses. Europe is a good example to cover as they are extensive and yet consistent with the USA for example when it comes to flying objectives.

To begin with there is the ground theory to first tackle. Some of the flight schools offer courses in this area, but the student has the option of learning this sector of the requirements independently. One must learn seven specific subjects. Within each of these subjects, there will be a written exam that must be successfully completed. You will most likely start with Air law and operational procedures followed by aircraft general and the principals of flight. Once you have mastered these two subjects and now have a clear understanding about the basics of flying you are ready to move onto more individualized subjects. Navigation and meteorology will be the next two courses for you. After all, you need to learn your sense of direction and weather patterns. Then you need communication skills, which you will learn in the Radiotelephony. Be aware that for this particular subject besides a written exam you will be required to complete an oral one as well. Finally, your last two theory subjects will be human performance and limitation flight, followed by planning and performance. Therefore, as you can see you have some very detailed and specific courses ahead of you.

Do not think that you will be able to just squeak by with a bare minimum pass of 50%. The pass mark happens to be 75% but the good news is all of the exams are multiple-choice answers. If you are an individual that tends to freeze up at exam time, don't worry, as you will have three opportunities to do the tests. If you still fail then you can go back for extra training.

Once you have successfully completed your first pass in your theory stage you have 18 months to complete the rest of your exams in order for your test marks to remain valid. From this point, you have two years to obtain your license without having to redo your exams.

It seems that no matter what the training or course someone always devises a way for shortcuts. This really is not a good idea. After all these courses are designed with your safety and the safety of others as the priorities. Books such as the PPL confuser are not a wise choice to help you cut corners. After all, you are only cheating yourself. The knowledge you gain from the course is the knowledge that makes you a qualified responsible Pilot.