If you search around on the Internet, have an older copy of the Instrument Flying Handbook, or talk to a seasoned CFII, you may run across the concept of "pattern a" and "pattern b." These were exercises which involved tracking courses, flying procedure turns, hold entries and sometimes constant speed climbs and descents. They seem like valuable maneuvers for honing instrument flying skills.
At some point in the last several years they seem to have been removed from the Instrument Flying Handbook. I don't actually own an out-of-date copy of the handbook to verify this, but if they were removed I'm wondering if anyone knows why. Does the FAA frown upon the use of these maneuvers in training?
Beyond the question itself, I'd love to find a current publication that teaches pattern a and pattern b for reference.