Well, with reality checks, they're usually not very effective unless they are done on a consistent basis so that they become a habit. Finding a current dream sign helps with that a lot, as you can train yourself to see things you usually see in your dreams. People who don't have a consistent dream sign can use writing on their hand or a piece of paper or a watch to try and create a dream sign so that they will perform that action in a dream and be able to become lucid.

It's all about making a habit of doing reality checks. If you create a habit, then chances are it will appear in your dream.

-Amé