|
|
Uphill Starts
Uphill Starts
Moving off on a gradient demands good co-ordination of the gas pedal, clutch and handbrake, for the obvious reasons that without it you will roll backwards and you will fail your practical test.
The normal routine for moving off away from the kerb applies, mirrors-signal-manoeuvre
Select first gear, bring the clutch to the 'biting point' and apply higher-than-usual revs. Check your mirrors, make sure too, that there are no pedestrians about to cross the road immediately behind your car, check over your right shoulder then if a signal is needed then give it. If it is safe to move off, release the handbrake and let the clutch bite a little more - enough to get the car rolling forward, but not enough to cause the car to jerk. Give a bit more gas as the car moves off, letting the clutch come right up as the car gathers speed.
Remember that it will be harder for the engine to overcome an extra load up the hill (like when you ride a cycle up a hill, you have to pedal a lot harder). Therefore, you must build up more momentum than usual in first gear before changing, and be sure not to fumble selection; otherwise all momentum will be lost.
Lastly if you signalled check that the indicator has cancelled, then drive the car normally and engage higher gears when required.
|
|
|
|
Ten Ways to overcome Test Nerves
1. Dont tell your friends the test date. If everyone knows you are going for the test, you create the additional stress of trying to live up to your friends expectations. It's OK to let your Mum and Dad know, we are sure they will give you all the support you need.
2. Dont listen to ˜horror stories™. There are many stories about failed tests. Some may even be true. Just concentrate on your performance.
3. Get the timing right. Take the test at the right time. Try to book the test so it does not coincide with other stressful events (just prior to school exams or in the middle of wedding preparations etc).
4. Go to the right test centre
5. Do a practice run. We use the term ˜Mock Test™. The instructor should be very realistic and the student must take it reasonably serious.
6. Examiners are only human. Your test is one of possibly eight on the examiners sheet that day. Dont try to please him/her.
7. You do not need to be perfect. Concentrate on the essentials. If you make a mistake, keep calm and concentrate on your driving. The mistake may not result in failure.
8. Dont worry about silence in the car. It can be daunting sitting beside a stranger, who seems to just grunt: 'turn right, turn left'. Avoid thinking the examiner doesnt like you. If there is a little chit-chat, be happy, but dont expect it.
9. You will pass. Both instructor and pupil must be convinced that the result will be a pass. An attitude lets have a go at it may produce a pass, but is exhausting on the nerves.
10. Dont take pills to calm your nerves. This only slows your reaction and performance.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
