In order to ensure accurate navigation, what should you do before making turns?

Using standard-rate turns is crucial for ensuring accurate navigation during flight. A standard-rate turn is defined as a turn where the aircraft changes heading at a rate of 3 degrees per second, which allows for a predictable and controlled maneuvering procedure. This consistency in the turn rate helps the pilot maintain spatial awareness and aids in managing the aircraft's flight path effectively.

By employing standard-rate turns, pilots can better anticipate their new heading and provide enough time to process information from navigational aids, which is important particularly in instrument flying conditions. This practice helps in maintaining a clear understanding of the aircraft's position relative to navigational waypoints and airspace boundaries.

While consulting air traffic control can offer valuable information, it does not directly influence the pilot's navigation during turns. Cross-checking with GPS is helpful for confirming the aircraft's position but does not establish a structured procedure for executing turns. Lastly, a roll rate check is not a standard practice for routine navigation and does not contribute to the assurance of accurate navigation in the same way a standard-rate turn does.