5hyl33n Learns to Drive | A Diary
Scroll to see replies
13/06/2022
The previous learner my instructor taught forgot they had a lesson and arrived an hour late to theirs. Therefore, my instructor was late to my lesson. He still offered to do 2 hours but due to the short notice, I was unable to do so. Instead we did an hour on the 13th and another hour on the 17th (will post about this over the weekend).
The aim of the lesson was to reverse in a straight line at the curb. This was probably the most difficult thing I’ve learnt so far! The explanation of what to do sounded straightforward: keep the steering wheel straight. Slightly release pressure off the brake. Look through the front left mirror to see which direction the car is going. Adjust the position of the steering wheel to avoid hitting the curb or drifting too far away from the curb.
On my first attempt, I nearly hit the curb. On my second attempt, I drifted too far away from the curb. On the third attempt, I managed to reverse in a straight line!
The only issue I faced was looking at all the mirrors for any oncoming vehicles/pedestrians whilst simultaneously trying to keep my car in a straight line!
Overall rating for the lesson:
The previous learner my instructor taught forgot they had a lesson and arrived an hour late to theirs. Therefore, my instructor was late to my lesson. He still offered to do 2 hours but due to the short notice, I was unable to do so. Instead we did an hour on the 13th and another hour on the 17th (will post about this over the weekend).
The aim of the lesson was to reverse in a straight line at the curb. This was probably the most difficult thing I’ve learnt so far! The explanation of what to do sounded straightforward: keep the steering wheel straight. Slightly release pressure off the brake. Look through the front left mirror to see which direction the car is going. Adjust the position of the steering wheel to avoid hitting the curb or drifting too far away from the curb.
On my first attempt, I nearly hit the curb. On my second attempt, I drifted too far away from the curb. On the third attempt, I managed to reverse in a straight line!
The only issue I faced was looking at all the mirrors for any oncoming vehicles/pedestrians whilst simultaneously trying to keep my car in a straight line!
Overall rating for the lesson:
(edited 2 months ago)
Reply 21
Sounds really positive so far
29/01/2026
Embarrassing, for two reasons. First, the font in my previous posts. Second, the fact that I still have not passed my practical test.
I do at least have an explanation for the second. Once I started university, my degree very quickly became my main priority for a lot of reasons. That said, I am now properly committed to getting this done.
As a result of taking so long, my theory test expired somewhere along the way, so I had to retake it. I passed again, haha.
I have now found an instructor who seems genuinely lovely and very accommodating and I have my first lesson next Wednesday.
Next task: fixing the layout of this truly atrocious thread.
Embarrassing, for two reasons. First, the font in my previous posts. Second, the fact that I still have not passed my practical test.
I do at least have an explanation for the second. Once I started university, my degree very quickly became my main priority for a lot of reasons. That said, I am now properly committed to getting this done.
As a result of taking so long, my theory test expired somewhere along the way, so I had to retake it. I passed again, haha.
I have now found an instructor who seems genuinely lovely and very accommodating and I have my first lesson next Wednesday.
Next task: fixing the layout of this truly atrocious thread.
oooooo
Posting to subscribe
Posting to subscribe
Original post
by mesuboooooo
Posting to subscribe
Posting to subscribe
04/01/2026
So, I had my first driving lesson today... actually, I had two. I decided to also trial a recommendation, so I'm going to recap my time with Instructor A and Instructor B. If you make it to the end, I could really use some perspective on what to do next!
Instructor A arrived right on time (11:30) and was very polite. He had me go straight into the driver's seat to walk me through the basics, like adjusting the seat, mirrors, and general controls. I was pretty nervous, so I really appreciated his emphasis on just getting comfortable with the car. We also only spent the lesson sticking to side roads and roundabouts, with a few main roads (nothing above 40 mph).
Roundabouts: conquered. Honestly, once you actually pay attention to the markings, they're way less intimidating. It's quite funny how one's brain works... the second you understand a concept, you can't even remember why it once used to feel like rocket science.
I've realised I prefer a more casual vibe during my lessons. Constant feedback, even if it is positive, actually makes me more anxious. I'd much rather chat about something random like the weather - it keeps me from overthinking every move. My instructor picked up on that vibe pretty quickly and followed my lead, which really helped. Of course, this doesn't mean I don't want feedback at all.
I have two habits to work on. I often cross my arms when I use the steering wheel to enter a road. My instructor isn't too worried yet since my grip on the car is solid which is what the examiner is wanting at the end of the day, but I know it's a habit I should break if I can. I also keep forgetting my blind spot checks when I leave a parked position. This was a struggle for me in the past and it seems I still haven't quite mastered it.
Overall rating for the lesson: 😁
Instructor B arrived 15 minutes late (13:45 instead of 13:30) but was very polite and apologised for being late. She also had me go straight into the driver's seat but she assumed I knew where everything was. I did know where everything was, but I think I would've preferred a quick run-through.
We most certainly did not spend the entire lesson only on side roads and roundabouts like with Instructor A. We went on a 60mph road within 30 minutes of the lesson, and of which she decided she to answer her phone and a few text messages halfway.
I appreciate that a driving instructor is supposed to give me directions and tell me what to do, but I don't always want that. I would like to have a bit of control over what I'm doing, especially if I'm not doing anything incorrectly. I'm not sure if I'm explaining my feelings very well here, so I'll stop now.
I felt like I was driving down a lot of random roads rather than following a set structure. Unlike my experience with Instructor A, I can barely remember which roads I took with Instructor B, although this might just be a problem on my end. I have also definitely been overcharged for the driving lesson.
Instructor B said I have the same two habits to work on, so regardless of my feelings towards her right now, I definitely need to sort out those bad habits!
Overall rating for the lesson: 😑
I made up my mind immediately about what I want to do going forwards. I'd rather stick to Instructor A. How do I tell Instructor B politely?
So, I had my first driving lesson today... actually, I had two. I decided to also trial a recommendation, so I'm going to recap my time with Instructor A and Instructor B. If you make it to the end, I could really use some perspective on what to do next!
Instructor A arrived right on time (11:30) and was very polite. He had me go straight into the driver's seat to walk me through the basics, like adjusting the seat, mirrors, and general controls. I was pretty nervous, so I really appreciated his emphasis on just getting comfortable with the car. We also only spent the lesson sticking to side roads and roundabouts, with a few main roads (nothing above 40 mph).
Roundabouts: conquered. Honestly, once you actually pay attention to the markings, they're way less intimidating. It's quite funny how one's brain works... the second you understand a concept, you can't even remember why it once used to feel like rocket science.
I've realised I prefer a more casual vibe during my lessons. Constant feedback, even if it is positive, actually makes me more anxious. I'd much rather chat about something random like the weather - it keeps me from overthinking every move. My instructor picked up on that vibe pretty quickly and followed my lead, which really helped. Of course, this doesn't mean I don't want feedback at all.
I have two habits to work on. I often cross my arms when I use the steering wheel to enter a road. My instructor isn't too worried yet since my grip on the car is solid which is what the examiner is wanting at the end of the day, but I know it's a habit I should break if I can. I also keep forgetting my blind spot checks when I leave a parked position. This was a struggle for me in the past and it seems I still haven't quite mastered it.
Overall rating for the lesson: 😁
Instructor B arrived 15 minutes late (13:45 instead of 13:30) but was very polite and apologised for being late. She also had me go straight into the driver's seat but she assumed I knew where everything was. I did know where everything was, but I think I would've preferred a quick run-through.
We most certainly did not spend the entire lesson only on side roads and roundabouts like with Instructor A. We went on a 60mph road within 30 minutes of the lesson, and of which she decided she to answer her phone and a few text messages halfway.
I appreciate that a driving instructor is supposed to give me directions and tell me what to do, but I don't always want that. I would like to have a bit of control over what I'm doing, especially if I'm not doing anything incorrectly. I'm not sure if I'm explaining my feelings very well here, so I'll stop now.
I felt like I was driving down a lot of random roads rather than following a set structure. Unlike my experience with Instructor A, I can barely remember which roads I took with Instructor B, although this might just be a problem on my end. I have also definitely been overcharged for the driving lesson.
Instructor B said I have the same two habits to work on, so regardless of my feelings towards her right now, I definitely need to sort out those bad habits!
Overall rating for the lesson: 😑
I made up my mind immediately about what I want to do going forwards. I'd rather stick to Instructor A. How do I tell Instructor B politely?
Reply 26
Presumably you have not booked a another lesson with Instructor B? Did you make any arrangement at all re future contact?
If nothing was agreed then would tend to wait until B contacts you as they seem rather lackadaisical.
You don't have to apologise - if they contact you thenjust say you've made other arrangements. You don't have to explain anything.
If nothing was agreed then would tend to wait until B contacts you as they seem rather lackadaisical.
You don't have to apologise - if they contact you thenjust say you've made other arrangements. You don't have to explain anything.
Reply 27
Posting to subscribe. I agree with Muttley
Original post
by Muttley79Presumably you have not booked a another lesson with Instructor B? Did you make any arrangement at all re future contact?
If nothing was agreed then would tend to wait until B contacts you as they seem rather lackadaisical.
You don't have to apologise - if they contact you thenjust say you've made other arrangements. You don't have to explain anything.
If nothing was agreed then would tend to wait until B contacts you as they seem rather lackadaisical.
You don't have to apologise - if they contact you thenjust say you've made other arrangements. You don't have to explain anything.
I just need to pay Instructor B for yesterday's lesson via bank transfer. I haven't booked another lesson.
Original post
by The_Lonely_GoatherdPosting to subscribe. I agree with Muttley
Reply 30
Original post
by 5hyl33nI just need to pay Instructor B for yesterday's lesson via bank transfer. I haven't booked another lesson.
Then just pay and keep a record; say nothing.
If they follow-up just say you've made other arrangements and don't get into a discussion. Good luck!
Ya I would agree with Muttley on this. Good to know you had a nice experience with instructor A though!
Posting to subscribe! (how have i only just found this)
Sounds like Instructor A is better/you vibe more with which can be important
When I had my first lesson with my current instructor after being with my instructor from my uni town. They went over cockpit drill and everything, we went to a local carpark so I could get used to the controls in their car, discussed what I covered previously. Then we went for a drive in busy + quieter areas and I think at the end they were assessing me to just see where I was at. Even though I thought my other instructor was good I didn't always know/understand why I was doing what I was doing + why so my current instructor is much better in that sense as they explain things really well
My driving test is in 2 weeks
(how have i only just found this)Sounds like Instructor A is better/you vibe more with which can be important
When I had my first lesson with my current instructor after being with my instructor from my uni town. They went over cockpit drill and everything, we went to a local carpark so I could get used to the controls in their car, discussed what I covered previously. Then we went for a drive in busy + quieter areas and I think at the end they were assessing me to just see where I was at. Even though I thought my other instructor was good I didn't always know/understand why I was doing what I was doing + why so my current instructor is much better in that sense as they explain things really well
My driving test is in 2 weeks
Reply 33
Original post
by ChronoscopePosting to subscribe! (how have i only just found this)
Sounds like Instructor A is better/you vibe more with which can be important
When I had my first lesson with my current instructor after being with my instructor from my uni town. They went over cockpit drill and everything, we went to a local carpark so I could get used to the controls in their car, discussed what I covered previously. Then we went for a drive in busy + quieter areas and I think at the end they were assessing me to just see where I was at. Even though I thought my other instructor was good I didn't always know/understand why I was doing what I was doing + why so my current instructor is much better in that sense as they explain things really well
My driving test is in 2 weeks
(how have i only just found this)Sounds like Instructor A is better/you vibe more with which can be important
When I had my first lesson with my current instructor after being with my instructor from my uni town. They went over cockpit drill and everything, we went to a local carpark so I could get used to the controls in their car, discussed what I covered previously. Then we went for a drive in busy + quieter areas and I think at the end they were assessing me to just see where I was at. Even though I thought my other instructor was good I didn't always know/understand why I was doing what I was doing + why so my current instructor is much better in that sense as they explain things really well
My driving test is in 2 weeks
Ooooh, good luck
Reply 34
Original post
by ChronoscopePosting to subscribe! (how have i only just found this)
Sounds like Instructor A is better/you vibe more with which can be important
When I had my first lesson with my current instructor after being with my instructor from my uni town. They went over cockpit drill and everything, we went to a local carpark so I could get used to the controls in their car, discussed what I covered previously. Then we went for a drive in busy + quieter areas and I think at the end they were assessing me to just see where I was at. Even though I thought my other instructor was good I didn't always know/understand why I was doing what I was doing + why so my current instructor is much better in that sense as they explain things really well
My driving test is in 2 weeks
(how have i only just found this)Sounds like Instructor A is better/you vibe more with which can be important
When I had my first lesson with my current instructor after being with my instructor from my uni town. They went over cockpit drill and everything, we went to a local carpark so I could get used to the controls in their car, discussed what I covered previously. Then we went for a drive in busy + quieter areas and I think at the end they were assessing me to just see where I was at. Even though I thought my other instructor was good I didn't always know/understand why I was doing what I was doing + why so my current instructor is much better in that sense as they explain things really well
My driving test is in 2 weeks
Good luck with the driving test!
Original post
by The_Lonely_GoatherdOoooh, good luck
Original post
by Muttley79Good luck with the driving test!
Thank you both!
Original post
by ChronoscopePosting to subscribe! (how have i only just found this)
Sounds like Instructor A is better/you vibe more with which can be important
When I had my first lesson with my current instructor after being with my instructor from my uni town. They went over cockpit drill and everything, we went to a local carpark so I could get used to the controls in their car, discussed what I covered previously. Then we went for a drive in busy + quieter areas and I think at the end they were assessing me to just see where I was at. Even though I thought my other instructor was good I didn't always know/understand why I was doing what I was doing + why so my current instructor is much better in that sense as they explain things really well
My driving test is in 2 weeks
(how have i only just found this)Sounds like Instructor A is better/you vibe more with which can be important
When I had my first lesson with my current instructor after being with my instructor from my uni town. They went over cockpit drill and everything, we went to a local carpark so I could get used to the controls in their car, discussed what I covered previously. Then we went for a drive in busy + quieter areas and I think at the end they were assessing me to just see where I was at. Even though I thought my other instructor was good I didn't always know/understand why I was doing what I was doing + why so my current instructor is much better in that sense as they explain things really well
My driving test is in 2 weeks
It sounds like you have a brilliant driving instructor.
Have you had your driving test now? Sorry I'm very behind.
11/02/2026
We began by going to the test centre car park so I could practise a reverse bay park. Although I know how to reverse park, I had forgotten the correct procedure, so here is a summary for my own reference:
In the end, it went fine, but I really dislike that area. It is very small, so there are limited directions you can take if you make a mistake.
I need to research which road it is because I've never been down there and my parents are telling me I'm giving a rubbish explanation so they can't tell me either. But for the purposes of this post a description will do. It is a long, narrow stretch of road with a 40 mph speed limit. Along it, there are countless potholes to avoid, as well as three barriers on the left side, which is the side I was driving on. Because of this, I had to check well in advance for oncoming traffic before moving over to the other side of the road. As a result, no one actually drives anywhere near 40 mph, but I was travelling at around 20 mph, which was too slow. I should have been closer to 25 mph.
On the way back, I accidentally missed a stop sign. The road was clear but I shouldn't have done that. I really don't know how I missed it.
Overall rating for the lesson: 🙂
We began by going to the test centre car park so I could practise a reverse bay park. Although I know how to reverse park, I had forgotten the correct procedure, so here is a summary for my own reference:
Reverse Park Bay
In the end, it went fine, but I really dislike that area. It is very small, so there are limited directions you can take if you make a mistake.
I need to research which road it is because I've never been down there and my parents are telling me I'm giving a rubbish explanation so they can't tell me either. But for the purposes of this post a description will do. It is a long, narrow stretch of road with a 40 mph speed limit. Along it, there are countless potholes to avoid, as well as three barriers on the left side, which is the side I was driving on. Because of this, I had to check well in advance for oncoming traffic before moving over to the other side of the road. As a result, no one actually drives anywhere near 40 mph, but I was travelling at around 20 mph, which was too slow. I should have been closer to 25 mph.
On the way back, I accidentally missed a stop sign. The road was clear but I shouldn't have done that. I really don't know how I missed it.
Overall rating for the lesson: 🙂
20/02/2026
I think my driving is getting worse.
I can't reverse in a straight line against the curb. You know the 'pull up to the right and reverse two car lengths?' I just don't know how to do it. I either go too far out or too close to the curb. Perhaps watching a few videos and reading articles might help?
I also haven't mastered the steering technique. I'm still doing the whole crossing arms thing and on the tight bends I slightly lose control.
Overall rating for the lesson: 😞
I think my driving is getting worse.
I can't reverse in a straight line against the curb. You know the 'pull up to the right and reverse two car lengths?' I just don't know how to do it. I either go too far out or too close to the curb. Perhaps watching a few videos and reading articles might help?
I also haven't mastered the steering technique. I'm still doing the whole crossing arms thing and on the tight bends I slightly lose control.
Overall rating for the lesson: 😞
Reply 39
Loads of hugs! 
And eeeeeeeeeeeek for those potholes, that's terrible that there are so many 
And eeeeeeeeeeeek for those potholes, that's terrible that there are so many Quick Reply
Related discussions
- Tips for Learning a Language?
- Italiano in Progress | 5hyl33n's Blog
- TSR Study Together - STEM vs Humanities | 2025 - 2026 | Session 15
- Advice you would give to someone in their first week of a primary pgce
- British Science Week 2026: Hub Thread
- PGCE
- Advice for new sixth formers
- Apps
- TSR Study Together - STEM vs Humanities | 2025 - 2026 | Hub Thread
- TSR Community Awards 2025: The Results
- Who Quoted Me?
- Apps for studying and planning
- Health and social care unit 6
- 🎓 Starting Uni & Studying Law: Tips for New Students
- Title: Bar Student Diaries Part 2 – The Modules That Took Me by Surprise!
- Veterinary Work Experience
- Studying GCSE/A-Level Chemistry? Ask Us Anything!
- TSR Community Awards 2025: Most Helpful in Study Help - Voting Open!
- do I need stationary for uni if I'm using my laptop?
- Access to HE Science Diploma
Latest
Trending
Last reply 3 months ago
What are the worst movies you have watched?Last reply 4 months ago
Blush, Bills & Boundaries - A self-care and wellness blogCreative corner
5
122
Last reply 8 months ago
Best laptop for students, Expert recommendations to chooseLast reply 9 months ago
Laptop recommendations for uniArticles for you
How The Student Room is moderated
To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.
