How do pilots identify incipient spins?

Pilots can identify incipient spins by feeling oscillations in pitch and roll. These oscillations indicate that the aircraft is experiencing unbalanced forces, which can lead to a stall and potentially develop into a spin if not corrected. In the incipient stage of a spin, the airplane might exhibit a combination of yaw, roll, and pitch oscillations as the airflow over the wings and control surfaces becomes disturbed. Recognizing these early signs allows pilots to take corrective action before the situation worsens.

Observing an immediate stall does not provide the subtle feedback necessary to identify an incipient spin, as it refers to the loss of lift rather than the preconditions of a spin. Smooth flight does not indicate any issues and would not help a pilot identify an incipient spin, and maintaining a constant airspeed does not relate to the symptoms of an upcoming spin. Thus, feeling the oscillations in pitch and roll is essential for recognizing the conditions leading to spin entry effectively.