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How to Use This Guide
This guide turns the ATCThing website course into a single training document. It is written for a new controller who wants to learn what to do on frequency, not just what the final test requires.
Read it in order:
- Learn the shared controller habits first.
- Complete S1 before attempting S2 responsibilities.
- Complete S2 before attempting S3 responsibilities.
- Use the checklists before live sessions.
- Use the phraseology examples until you can speak naturally without losing structure.
The guide follows the ATCThing rating path:
| Rating | ATCThing Focus | Main Positions | Practical Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| S1 | Delivery and Ground | DEL, GND | Clearances, flight plans, taxi, runway crossing coordination |
| S2 | Tower and Departure | TWR, DEP | Runway control, takeoff/landing, circuits, initial departure flow |
| S3 | Approach and Control | APP, DEP, CTR-style control as assigned | Radar sequencing, vectoring, descents, conflict resolution |
VATSIM's public rating descriptions may differ by policy wording and local division rules. ATCThing uses a VATSIM-style progression adapted for GeoFS and its own training environment.