How do I recognise the different phases of mitosis by simply looking at an image (e.g. electron micrograph)?

When coming across a question like that, I would recommend to always first recall the different stages of mitosis in their correct order, and to remember each phase along with a key-word that sums it up. For example, the image you are given is of a cell with no nucleus and with a dark band at its centre. You could then approach the question, as follows:(1) "A pee mat or P-M-A-T, so the correct order of the mitotic phases would be: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase."(2) "Prophase: Supercoiling - Metaphase: Alignment - Anaphase: Poles - Telophase: Division."(3) "The image shows a dark band at the centre, which could indicate the alignment of chromosomes at the middle of the cell; thus, the answer must be Metaphase."When having to memorise a process for an exam, it is always a good idea to learn a mnemonic for the order of the different steps within that process, and to summarise each step using one or two key-words.