The document outlines a checklist for modernizing cloud-based applications through five key practices: structuring applications as microservices, utilizing serverless technologies, modeling applications and infrastructure with code, implementing continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD), and monitoring application behavior. It emphasizes the benefits of these practices in terms of agility, innovation, and efficiency while providing a framework for developers to enhance their cloud capabilities. Additionally, it offers resources for further education and training to bolster cloud technology skills.