What is the correct sequence for operating the clutch, brake, and accelerator for learners?
2 Answers
The correct sequence for operating the clutch, brake, and accelerator for learners: 1. A manual transmission car has three pedals, arranged from left to right as: clutch pedal, brake pedal, and accelerator pedal. Coordinating the operation of these three pedals is the most frequent driving action in a manual transmission car and one of the key factors reflecting a learner's driving proficiency. 2. When releasing the accelerator pedal, only the ball of the foot needs to slightly lift off the pedal, while the heel should remain stationary without any backward movement. After shifting gears, gradually lift the clutch pedal until reaching the semi-engagement point, then gently press the accelerator. Once the left foot has fully released the clutch pedal, place it on the left-side footrest. 3. During driving, the right foot alternates between controlling the accelerator and brake pedals—use the accelerator for starting and accelerating, and the brake pedal for stopping and decelerating. Keep the heel grounded during operation, with minimal heel movement when switching between pedals.
When I first started learning to drive, I often made mistakes too, but now that I've been driving a manual for a long time, I understand. When starting, always press the clutch all the way down first, then shift into gear, release the handbrake, and slowly release the clutch to the half-engagement point—this is when the car will shake slightly. Then gently apply a bit of throttle, maintaining the throttle while continuing to fully release the clutch. This way, the start will be very smooth. When stopping, first press the brake to slow down, and when the speed drops to almost a stop, press the clutch all the way down. Then firmly press the brake, and finally pull up the handbrake and shift into neutral. Getting this sequence right is crucial to avoid stalling or lurching forward unexpectedly!
