A well-trained pilot will follow SOPs without the need to employ cognitive resources in the decision-making process, thereby maintaining the workload at an optimum level.

SOPs are an effective aid to decision-making for the flight crew, reducing their workload and reducing the probability of taking poor decisions and making errors.

SOPs are presented in written form as checklists and manuals, so pilots do NOT need to store in long-term memory the correct procedure for a given situation.

SOPs for emergency situations must be followed by the crew, as they help to ensure a safe out come, though flight crew can modify SOPs for normal situations. if so agreed during the pre-flight briefing.