What is the mnemonic rhyme for beginners practicing driving an automatic transmission car?
2 Answers
New drivers practicing with an automatic transmission can remember the following rhyme: one turn, two press, three shift; four honk, five release, six observe; seven lift, eight step, nine return lights. Automatic transmission typically refers to a car's automatic gear-shifting mechanism, where the control system of the automatic transmission selects the appropriate gear based on the engine's speed and load during driving, replacing the driver's subjective judgment of timing and gear-shifting operations. Automatic transmissions use planetary gear mechanisms to change gears, automatically shifting based on the degree of throttle pedal pressure and changes in vehicle speed, while the driver only needs to control the speed with the accelerator pedal. Generally, automatic transmissions have six gear positions: P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), S (Sport), and L (Low).
I've been driving for over a decade and have taught many beginners how to drive automatic transmission cars. There's a simple rhyme I always share: 'Press brake to start, shift to P to ignite; Drive in D for smooth forward flight; Reverse needs R, look back with care; Park by N first, handbrake then P to retire.' When practicing, focus on developing these habitual sequences: Always press the brake pedal before starting the engine, otherwise the car might roll; When moving from standstill, gently release the brake before transitioning to the accelerator; Never rely solely on mirrors when reversing - turn your head for full visibility; Don't lazily shift directly to P when parking, as this can damage the transmission. Practice reversing and turning repeatedly in open spaces to familiarize yourself with brake pressure control - this builds confidence quickly. Safety always comes first - don't rush onto highways, start with slow-speed areas first.
