How to Correctly Step on the Accelerator and Clutch in Subject Three?
3 Answers
Subject Three: The correct method of stepping on the accelerator and clutch is introduced as follows: 1. Seat adjustment: Adjust the seat. Many people forget to adjust the seat before the test, resulting in discomfort all over the body, or even inability to see the reference points clearly. To control the clutch and accelerator, place your right foot on the accelerator pedal, ensuring it feels comfortable—neither too far to reach nor too crowded. Both hands should rest comfortably on the top of the steering wheel. 2. Foot posture: Place the heel of your right foot on the floor of the driver's compartment as a pivot point, with the ball of your foot resting on the pedal. Use the strength of your ankle joint to move back and forth, ensuring it feels comfortable—discomfort is not acceptable. 3. Starting: First, press the clutch all the way down, shift into first gear, and then slowly release the clutch until the car noticeably vibrates. Releasing it too quickly will cause the engine to stall. At this point, gently press the accelerator with your right foot in sync with the vehicle's speed—press it slowly, as pressing too hard will cause the car to jerk forward. Once the clutch is fully released, the car will start smoothly. 4. Shifting gears: Upshifting: Before upshifting, ensure coordination between the accelerator and clutch. First, release the clutch, then press the accelerator, allowing the speed to increase gradually—avoid pressing the accelerator abruptly. Downshifting: If the speed is too high, lightly press the brake before downshifting.
I used to be an experienced driver, and during the driving test for Subject 3, improper coordination between the accelerator and clutch could cost you. The clutch must be pressed down quickly for gear shifting, then released slowly without rushing, while the accelerator should be gently pressed for smooth acceleration. The most crucial part during startup: hold the clutch at the semi-engagement point steadily, while gently pressing the accelerator to provide some power—just enough to prevent the car from jerking or stalling. The examiner in Subject 3 values smoothness the most—any jerking will result in point deductions. Practice more to develop a feel; hand-foot coordination is key. When nervous or flustered during the test, take a deep breath to stabilize your operations. The same principles apply in everyday driving—smooth gear shifting can even save you some fuel money.
After years of teaching driving, I often see students make mistakes with pedal operation. The golden rule for the clutch is 'depress quickly, release slowly' – never the opposite, as releasing too fast causes stalling. Avoid stomping on the accelerator; gradual pressure ensures smoothness. For License Test Phase 3, gear shifting is key: fully depress the clutch to shift, then slowly lift to the biting point while gently adding throttle. A common starting error is rushing the throttle during clutch engagement, causing jerking that'll cost points. Practice finding the rhythm – throttle should follow the clutch's movement. Safety-wise, proper technique prevents rollback accidents, especially on hill starts. Simulate test conditions frequently; developing muscle memory makes it much easier.
