Which stage of skill acquisition is characterized by the learner entering a steep turn with proper power and pitch trim but unable to hold the correct control inputs?

The cognitive stage of skill acquisition is where learners are just beginning to grasp new skills. During this stage, they are focused on understanding the basics of the skill and how to execute it. The fact that the learner in the scenario can perform certain actions, like entering a steep turn with proper power and pitch trim, indicates that they have some understanding and can execute specific components of the maneuver. However, the inability to maintain the correct control inputs suggests that they are still struggling with the integration and fluidity of the skills required for proficient performance, which is characteristic of the cognitive stage. In this phase, learners are often actively thinking about and processing what they need to do, which contrasts with smoother execution seen in more advanced stages of skill acquisition.