SLM Driving School
Learning Hub

Setting Off & Stopping

The foundation of safe driving begins here. Master the subtle art of clutch control and the precision of the stopping routine to navigate with confidence.

Start Lesson

The P.O.M. Routine

Every journey starts with this essential sequence. Memorize it, practice it, and make it second nature before moving the vehicle.

P

Prepare

Ensure the vehicle is ready to move. Depress the clutch fully, select 1st gear, and set the gas (approx 1500-2000 RPM) to prevent stalling.

O

Observe

Look around 360 degrees. Check mirrors, look over your shoulders into blind spots. Signal if necessary to warn other road users.

M

Move

Release the handbrake. Gently lift the clutch to the bite point. As the car moves, progressively release the clutch and increase gas.

Technical Focus

Mastering the 'Bite Point'

The clutch is not an on/off switch. It is a fader. The "Bite Point" is the friction zone where two plates meet—one from the engine, one from the wheels.

  • Find the tension: As you lift your left foot, the engine tone will deepen, and the bonnet may rise slightly.
  • Hold it steady: When you feel the bite, freeze your foot. Do not release fully until the car has gained momentum.
  • See-saw action: As the clutch comes up, the gas must go down slightly to maintain power.
Diagram showing foot placement on pedals emphasizing clutch control
Left Foot: Slow Release The Friction Zone

The Sequence: Moving Off Safely

Follow this step-by-step procedure to enter traffic safely.

1

Clutch Down

Ensure full disengagement before selecting gear.

2

Select 1st Gear

Place hand on gear stick, palm away, guide into first.

3

Set the Gas

Press accelerator gently. Listen for a lively hum, not a roar.

4

Find Bite Point

Raise clutch until car strains to move. Hold feet still.

6-Point Check

Left blindspot -> Left Mirror -> Centre -> Road Ahead -> Right Mirror -> Right Blindspot.

Release & Go

Release handbrake. Signal if needed. Gently release clutch fully while adding gas.

Pulling Over Safely

The Stopping Routine (M.S.M)

Stopping requires just as much planning as starting. Never brake harshly. Plan ahead using the Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre routine to pull over safely on the left.

M

Mirrors

Check interior mirror and left door mirror to ensure it's safe to slow down and move left.

S

Signal

Indicate left if there are other road users who need to know your intentions.

M

Manoeuvre

Steer gently to the kerb. Brake progressively (harder at first, lighter as you stop). Clutch down approx 1 car length before stopping.

Visualization of car pulling over to kerb

Pro Tip

Avoid "Coasting". Only press the clutch down right at the end, just before the car stops, to maintain engine braking control.

Securing the Vehicle

Once the vehicle has come to a complete halt, perform this checklist immediately to ensure safety.

Common Faults & Hazards

Stalling

Caused by releasing the clutch too fast or not setting enough gas.
Remedy: Hold the bite point longer.

Blind Spot Neglect

Moving off without checking the right shoulder blind spot.
Remedy: Always look before you move.

Coasting to Stop

Pressing clutch down too early when stopping, losing engine control.
Remedy: Brake first, clutch last.

Ready for the next gear?

You've mastered the basics of control. Now it's time to pick up speed and learn how to change gears smoothly.

Back To Subjects