1. Various types of test instruments are available for testing electrical circuits. The ones you choose depend on the type of circuit and its components. A common test instrument which is invaluable to a troubleshooter is a Multimeter.

   It is capable of measuring voltage and resistance with some meters capable of other measurements such as current and capacitance. You must be able to determine what type of test instrument to use, when and where to use it, and how to safely take readings with it.

   Practice! Troubleshooting, like any skill, requires practice to become proficient. Practice can be difficult to get.

   Depending on your job, you may not have the opportunity for enough troubleshooting practice. And even if you do, your employer may not want you to practice troubleshooting on equipment they depend on. Until you become reasonably competent, it is best to practice troubleshooting in a controlled environment. One option is to build or purchase equipment that can be used for troubleshooting. This equipment is designed with the ability to apply faults to it.

   Here you can practice your skills in a very realistic environment without affecting equipment in use.

   Another option which is gaining more popularity is the use of computer simulations. These simulations can be extremely realistic and allow you to practice your troubleshooting skills in a safe environment.

   Some other advantages are portability, cost effectiveness, and can be used in almost any location. Some even include an assessment function that assesses the user's troubleshooting skill, provides feedback, and records their troubleshooting processes.

Review your own skills in each of these areas. Improving any one of them, along with a good dose of practice, will improve your troubleshooting skills.