In a very similar vein to the above, learning what families of birds look like will help you when you are struggling (with thousands of birds it is hard sometimes to know where to start). A duck is from a separate family to a warbler (obvious I know) but there is little point searching through the duck species to find the warbler you have found!  Again it is all about studying the books etc available to learn what fits where.

An aspect of bird watching that is often overlooked (even by some of the most experienced birdwatchers) is fieldcraft. Learning how to approach birds (or habitats) is a key element on finding great birds.  Keep our profile low, you will often see birdwatchers on the tops of hills scanning around, but the people who find birds will be below the brow, so that their profile doesn't scare the birds. Keep your clothing dull or drab, bright colours will make you stand out, birds will see you and hide!  Keep quiet, there is nothing quite like loud people for frightening off birds!

Most of all, the number one tip for bird watching is to enjoy it, this hobby can be exhilarating and fun at the same time, while also being peaceful and a good hobby to meet new people through, it really is a fun hobby.