Originally Posted by FlyPurdue

Once you start learning about the automation, make sure you really understand the difference between SPDt (Speed on Thrust) and SPDe (Speed on Elevator). Understanding the difference will vastly improve your energy management. Also, always know why the FMS is commanding a specific speed when in the ‘FMS Speed’ mode. Finally, when planning on a VNAV descent, always be thinking (and verifying) that the plane is going to start (and stop) descending when you want it to.

I’m not trying to confuse you with specifics, and don’t worry about these things now as it sounds like you have not started class yet, but keep these things in the back of your mind when you get into the procedures trainer.