I agree with just about everything mentioned above. Although, I typically agree with Rickair, I am not a big fan of using the VSI. Steep turns are supposed to be a visual maneuver; just like the rest of the Private Pilot maneuvers (besides the req. instrument work).

I noticed that altitude deviations were always the result of poor entry into the turn. Rudder usage is imperative to successful completion of the maneuver. Remember left turning tendencies? If you're rolling into a turn to the right, those tendencies will tend to pull the airplane into a climb since "left" is now 45 degrees up and to the left. You really need a good amount of right rudder rolling into a turn to the right. In a turn to the left, the need for rudder is not as amplified since the airplane is more willing to roll in that direction. However, when rolling out from a left turn the need for right rudder will be just as important as it is for rolling into any other right turn. Long story short, control the left turning tendency and it, along with all of the previously posted advice, should help control the altitude deviations.

I did a lot of instructing in a 180 HP 172 and the need for rudder was obvious. I know the need is still there for a lower HP 172 but it may not be as much. If you have an option to fly both at your club/school, see if you notice the difference. There definitely is one!


Good luck.
PS. The best advice from above was to have your CFI cover up the instruments; it will FORCE you to fly visually.