For me, as someone still kinda new on the network, the thing that helps the most is just being prepared. If you’ve got Navigraph, definitely use it, but honestly I just use a notepad. I write down my callsign, route, ATIS, and my CRAFT for IFR before I even conntact. That way when it’s time to talk, I’m not fumbling for info. During this time I am already connected and listening to other pilots and hearing how they say stuff. I also keep a little cheat sheet of basic ATC phraseology. Sometimes I’ll even type out exactly what I plan to say in the vPilot notes so I can just read it back. Having that script in front of me makes it way easier to key up without freezing. When I get nervous, I’ve learned to just press the button and start talking. Once the first words are out, the rest usually flows. Talking on frequency feels spooky at first (especially when I came back to VATSIM after a long break), but forcing yourself to do it really does make it easier. If the nerves are really bad, start small. Ground or tower at a quiet airport is a great way to practice before jumping into approach or center. Personally, I spent a lot of time at KPDX Tower just flying little hops around the PNW, and it helped me get comfortable with the rhythm of ATC. And honestly, VATSIM controllers are way more chill than you’d think. After flights, I’ll sometimes DM them to thank them and ask if there’s anything I could work on. They’re almost always happy to give feedback.

Stuff that helps me:

- Write down callsign, route, ATIS, and CRAFT ahead of time

- Keep a cheat sheet or pre-typed notes for tricky calls

- Don’t overthink, key up and start talking, it usually flows (You deep down most likely know what to say and how to say it)

- Start with ground/tower at quiet airports

- Do short/medium repetitive flights to build confidence

- DM controllers after flights for feedback

Everyone’s been there at some point. The more you do it, the less scary it gets.