Career CFI here. This is mandatory reading for my Primary students (Instrument students are required to read Ewings equally comprehensive and useful Concise Guide to IFR), and as the review title says, it’s the best $13 you’ll spend in aviation. John Ewing is a passionate, active and awesome DPE in the San Franciso Bay Area, and this document follows the Private ACS to the letter — as do John's checkrides. Everythning you need to know, nothing less, lots of hyperlinks to relevant official material … clearly a lot of effort went into compiling this book, and John keeps it current with regualr updates as needed. Beyond awareness of FAA publications like FAR/AIM, AFH and PHAK, I tell my students this is the single best publication they can use to prepare for their FAA practical exams.

I used John’s book to help me transition to the 172 as a new CFI. (I’d never flown a 172; all my time was in tailwheels, Cirri, and Arrows.) His book is well-organized, highlights the important stuff, and is concise. You still gotta know the POH but this book is a welcome and well-used addition. And if you’re an instrument pilot or student, his concise IFR book is good too.

Highly recommended for anyone flying or intending to fly the 172S. It presents all the information you need for safe, competent and enjoyable flying. It is organized so that quick reference is possible. A good source too for checkride and BFR review.