Some shops can be very overwhelming at first. To be a good shopper, one needs to have the ability to pay attention to detail and remember many different things at the same time.
I always read over my questionnaire before entering so I know exactly what information I need. Once inside, or outside in my car, I just act natural and pay attention to my surroundings. It amazes me how much detail I can recall while I am filling out the report.
I also find it easier to look for what is wrong rather than what is right. An example would be to scan the room and instead of looking to see if all the lights are working, I take note of any that are not.
Once you have been doing this a while, most of your income will be doing the same kinds of shops and it will become natural to make the observations. Heck, I find myself making observations and timings when I am not on a shop. Every time I do something new, and it isn't often, I still get a little anxious and have to remind myself to just relax and remain observant.
On the income note. The way I see it, if I do a fast food lunch, I was paid $7, I put $7 ( or whatever the reimbursement) in the bank and I got to eat lunch too.
I do not use tape recorders or stopwatches because they are not natural. I record things in my head. I always stand with my arms folded so my watch is facing me. Good Luck!
Making the world a better place to shop, one assignment at a time!