In practical driving lessons, you have to listen to your driving instructor. And no, the instructor isn't eager to see you suffer on a hill (although it sometimes seems that way, right?). Actively listening to their instructions and advice is essential because your safety behind the wheel, the effectiveness of your learning process, and, of course, your passing of the driving test depend directly on how well you listen and follow their instructions.

We know we all get nervous the first time we drive, and it's hard to listen, especially with so many stimuli on the road. So if there's one thing you need to keep in mind from the first time you start your car, it's this: listen, listen and listen to the teacher, and not to a colleague who got his license a thousand years ago (or the day before yesterday, it doesn't matter).

Why is it so important to follow the teacher's instructions in practical classes to the letter?

Because he's a highly trained professional with extensive experience to teach you how to drive safely and confidently. He knows how to teach you so you can achieve your goal, step by step.

Throughout this entire process, from the moment you begin your training until the day of the exam, your teacher will be your guide.

The first and obvious thing is that it teaches you how to start the machine, because no one is born knowing how to do it. It teaches you how to drive, trains your reflexes and how to anticipate what happens on the road, gives you resources, corrects you, and also tests you when necessary. He does this because he knows what you will need from minute 1 in the practice car, how to prepare for the practical driving test, and, above all, from day 1 with your license.

Plus, he sees what you can't see yet (yet, because you'll eventually see it too). While you're worried about whether you've shifted gear correctly, whether my car is going to stall, and a host of other worries we've all had our first few times, he's already spotted a pedestrian who looks like he's about to cross, a half-covered yield sign, or a badly parked car that could give you a scare.

Listening well gives you seconds to react. And those seconds can make all the difference on the day of the practical exam, and certainly afterward.

Beware of "expert advice" from random people. We know: just saying you're giving practice classes is enough to make everyone want to give you endless advice. They're probably well-intentioned, but they're not professional driver training professionals.

Every driving school has its own way of teaching, as there are different methods and every student learns differently. What worked for your friend may not work for you. Furthermore, much of that advice may be outdated or simply incorrect.

In a driving school there is a method, not improvised learning

Your teacher has designed a plan for youHe knows your strengths and the areas that need work. You're not learning haphazardly. So when he tells you to repeat a maneuver or work harder on a certain area, it's not because he's attached to that roundabout (although he might be), it's because he knows that mastering it will give you confidence and security.

When you truly pay attention to your instructor, you stop worrying so much about "am I doing this right?" and can focus more on "what's next?" You'll anticipate what's happening and learn to make decisions. Furthermore, understanding their instructions well doesn't mean you have to be tense. Quite the opposite: listening well means relaxing. The more actively you listen, the smoother everything will be.

And you start enjoying the process (this is when you tell us, "Well, I'm enjoying driving").

Proper practice will give you confidence, and confidence gives you security. So, you know: listen to your practice teacher, trust their experience, and if someone gives you advice... say "great, thanks" and get on with it.

Remember that you're going to get your license, and you're going to get it right.