Modern engines have improved enormously in flexibility since I learnt to drive 20+ years ago. The efficient braking systems and gear box efficiency of today’s cars often make it unnecessary to change into every gear when changing up and down the gearbox, as I was originally taught to do.

By missing out gears at the appropriate time you have more time to concentrate on the road ahead and allow you keep both hands on the steering wheel for longer.

Beverly Slater

Changing Down

As a general rule, it is preferable and safer to brake to the desired speed and then change down into the appropriate gear. It may be necessary to maintain a slight pressure on the footbrake whilst changing.

Changing Up

Many occasions when changing up it is desirable to skip gears. However, beware, accelerating too fiercely for too long in lower gears as this:

• uses more fuel
• could damage engine
• could cause wheel spin and loss of control

How Many Gears to Miss Out

Deciding which gears to skip depends on the vehicle, road and traffic conditions. Most common combinations are:

The Official DSA Book, Driving – The Essential Skills is very useful for more information on modern driving techniques.

http://www.beverlyslater.com/pages/gifts-and-bookshop/books.aspx

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