Even if your student will eventually be driving a standard shift, if possible, start with an automatic the first few times you drive. A standard shift requires timed coordination of both feet along with proper gear placement. Many new drivers have great difficulty performing these tasks properly. They often give the gearshift lever and clutch pedal too much attention, to the exclusion of other events in the traffic environment. Only after competency and confidence is gained in an automatic should you switch to the standard shift.
Once the engine has warmed, depress the brake pedal and place the transmission into drive. Release the emergency brake. You are now ready to move forward. For most automatic transmissions, the vehicle will begin to move forward once you take your foot off the brake. Have your new driver move forward a few feet and stop. Do this a few times to give your student the feel of braking. You should also demonstrate the effect of engaging the emergency brake. Have the student pull forward and engage the brake. Here is a good place to work on your system of communication. Demonstrate to the student what you mean by “slow” versus “STOP!” or “smooth” or “easy.”
Standard Transmission
Depress the clutch pedal and place the gear in first. The gearshift knob will usually have a diagram of the shift pattern. Once you are certain you are in the proper gear, depress the brake and release the emergency brake. Slowly release the clutch pedal, while at the same time slowly depressing the accelerator. The vehicle will begin to move forward.
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