Written for the pilot desiring to add an instrument rating, and for the instrument-rated pilot who needs a refresher. Divided into five sections, the book covers: airplane performance and basic instrument flying, navigation and communication aids and their instruments, planning the instrument flight (weather systems and planning, charts and other printed aids, and planning the navigation), the instrument flight and the knowledge and practical tests (a scenario "trip" using the knowledge gained in the first three sections, including clearances, takeoff and departure, enroute, and approaches, and a syllabus for the instrument trainee and the CFII.

Significant time is devoted to air traffic control as it is one of the most difficult aspects of flying IFR. Kershner's goal in this manual is to cover the subject in as much detail as possible while remaining uncomplicated.

Airspeeds, expected clearances, and altitudes used are based on high-performance, retractable-gear, four-place, general aviation airplanes unless otherwise noted. Jet and other high-altitude (above 18,000’) IFR operations are left for coverage in other books. Numerous illustrations by the author aid in visualization of the concepts. This book covers everything students need to know to obtain an FAA instrument rating and will be a valuable aid to instructors.