I also am HGFA.
Before we board the plane, we check everything.
Then we use these checklists
STAIP - Pre-Engine Start
S SECURITY all loose objects stowed / secured
T THROTTLE closed for engine start (check hand throttle)
A ALL CLEAR look either side and to rear
I IGNITIONS switch both systems ON
P PROP CLEAR PROP!
CHIFWAP - Pre-Taxying
C CONTROLS check full & free in both axes, & hang-bolt
H HELMETS check both secure on all crew
& HARNESSES
I INSTRUMENTS altimeter set, temps coming up, rev drop etc
& IGNITIONS
F FUEL cap on, tap on, enough fuel for flight
W WIND strength, direction, which runway to use?
A ALL CLEAR for taxying
P POWER begin to taxi using foot throttle
FAAWNT - Pre-Landing Checks
F FUEL enough for go around?
A ALL CLEAR in circuit, taxiways, runways, ahead, on base, long
final etc
A ALTITUDE am I at the correct altitude for the circuit?
W WIND windsock for strength & direction, gusting?
crosswind?
N NOSE WHEEL IT MUST BE STRAIGHT!
T THROTTLE check the hand-throttle hasn't stuck on ("Teflon
Throttle" syndrome)