I too find I have to do the checks in the same sequence all the time. This, and starting the check list process over from the beginning when anything interrupts it or distracts me, greatly reduces errors that are caught with the re-check.
I do two identical checks and another more minimal one just before entry. This last one is to check weights on, gas gauge reading done while inhaling, all regulators functioning and properly positioned, air in bladder or operable, fins on or in hand, mask on, reg in mouth or in hand. All dependent on dive requirements.
And very important - I do not rush. I wait until I feel ready to enter. If I feel uneasy for any reason, I'll step aside and wait until I gather myself to enter, or abort. I am trying to make these last few evaluation checks before entry totally habitual, by not making any exceptions under any circumstances. Easier said then done, sometimes.
I've been thinking for sometime about adopting a written check list, as it makes sense. How do those of you who use one handle the issue of checking items that will be used every dive and items that are dive dependent and are not used every dive?
