Eights-on-pylons are performed at bank angles ranging from  shallow to steep.  [Figure 6-14]  The pilot should understand  that the bank chosen does not alter the pivotal altitude. As  proficiency is gained, the instructor should increase the  complexity of the maneuver by directing the student to enter  at a distance from the pylon that results in a specific bank  angle at the steepest point in the pylon turn. The most common error in attempting to hold a pylon is  incorrect use of the rudder. When the projection of the visual  reference line moves forward with respect to the pylon, many  pilots tend to apply inside rudder pressure to yaw the wing  backward. When the reference line moves behind the pylon,  they tend to apply outside rudder pressure to yaw the wing  forward. The pilot should use the rudder only for coordination. At the completion of ground reference maneuvers, the pilot  should not only be able to command the airplane to specific  pitch, roll, and yaw attitudes but, while correcting for the  effects of wind drift, also control the airplane’s orientation in  relation to ground-based references. It should be reinforced  that safety is paramount in all aspects of flying. Ground  reference maneuvers require planning and high levels of  vigilance to ensure that the practice and performance of these  maneuvers are executed where the safety to groups of people,  livestock, communities, and the pilot is not compromised.  To master ground reference maneuvers, a pilot must develop  coordination, timing, and division of attention to accurately  maneuver the airplane in reference to flight attitudes and  specific ground references. With these enhanced skills, the  pilot significantl strengthens their competency in everyday  flight maneuvers, such as straight-and-level, turns, climbs,  and descents. Other common errors in the performance of eights-on- pylons are: Figure 6-14.  Bank angle versus pivotal altitude. 6-18 Pivotal altitude 60° 45° 30° Chapter Summary • Failure to properly execute constant radius turns. • Failure to manipulate the flight controls in a smooth  and continuous manner. • Failure to establish the appropriate wind correction  angles. • Failure to apply coordinated aileron and rudder  pressure, resulting in slips or skids. • Failure to maintain orientation as the maneuver  progresses. • Failure to adequately clear the area above, below,  and on either side of the airplane for safety hazards,  initially and throughout the maneuver. • Poor selection of ground references. • Failure to establish a constant, level altitude prior to  entering the maneuver. • Failure to maintain adequate altitude control during  the maneuver. • Failure to properly assess wind direction.