The presentation provides a brief history of the use of simulators as a flight training aid, then we explain the various types of simulators, FAA approvals, and a review of recent regulatory relief. Tips for using off-the-shelf desktop flight simulator software to build proficiency are discussed and several myths and misconceptions are dispelled. Finally, we demonstrate the effectiveness of using simulators for training and discuss how to build an economical flight simulator. This was a live stream presentation from Gleim Aviation and X-Plane at the National Association of Flight Instructor's Professional Development Center at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI, on July 28, 2018.