Should I Only Use the Brake When Decelerating in Subject Three?
3 Answers
In the Subject Three exam, deceleration is achieved by only using the brake. Subject Three, which includes the road driving skills test and the safe and civilized driving knowledge test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. It is the abbreviated term for the road driving skills and safe and civilized driving knowledge test subjects in the motor vehicle driver's exam. The content of the road driving skills test varies for different types of vehicles eligible for driving. Below is an introduction to the content of the Subject Three exam: 1. Introduction to Subject Three: Subject Three includes the road driving skills test and the safe and civilized driving knowledge test, which are part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. It is the abbreviated term for the road driving skills and safe and civilized driving knowledge test subjects in the motor vehicle driver's exam. The content of the road driving skills test varies for different types of vehicles eligible for driving. 2. Content of the Subject Three Exam: The road driving skills test in Subject Three generally includes: preparation before driving, simulated lighting test, starting, driving straight, gear shifting operations, changing lanes, pulling over, going straight through intersections, turning left at intersections, turning right at intersections, crossing pedestrian crossings, passing school zones, passing bus stops, meeting oncoming vehicles, overtaking, making U-turns, and driving at night. The safe and civilized driving knowledge test generally includes: requirements for safe and civilized driving operations, knowledge of safe driving under adverse weather and complex road conditions, emergency handling methods for situations like tire blowouts, and post-accident handling knowledge.
I just got my driver's license last year, and slowing down in Subject 3 isn't as simple as just hitting the brakes. The instructor repeatedly emphasized checking the rearview mirror before slowing down to ensure no cars are behind you, especially when crossing zebra crossings or intersections. For manual transmissions, you need to brake while simultaneously pressing the clutch and downshifting, otherwise, the car might stall and you'll lose points. The test has specific deceleration points, like slowing down in advance when approaching traffic lights and stopping to observe before proceeding smoothly. During practice, I often made mistakes, focusing only on braking and forgetting to check the mirror, nearly hitting the cones. After more practice, I developed good habits, and now driving feels much safer. The test isn't just about skills—it's a process of building safety awareness.
As a seasoned manual transmission driver with nearly a decade of experience, braking is just the starting point when decelerating. It must be combined with checking the rearview mirror and gear shifting to avoid hazards. In manual cars, braking without depressing the clutch can easily cause stalling or skidding, especially in rain or snow; this is even more critical during driving tests where instructors deduct points for careless mistakes. Before slowing down, quickly scan both side mirrors, control your speed appropriately, and gently press the clutch to shift into second gear for a smooth transition when necessary. I share these tips because I witnessed a rear-end collision early in my career caused by a novice who only braked without adjusting gears. Safe driving is the essence of deceleration, and the test aims to teach us risk prevention.
