Trouble Judging when to start Descending in pattern

[IlyaK18]

Hello all, Currently training in a Piper Warrior, the question I had was if there is any way to know when to start descending from traffic pattern altitude. I have no issue with it when doing a standard pattern, but when I am told to extend downwind or do a straight in , I get a little confused. Thanks

 

[Jim Logajan]

Do a net search for TLAR and glider flying. For example:

http://home.comcast.net/~verhulst/GBSC/student/HowFarCanYouSpit.pdf

It is indeed relevant to landing powered airplanes.