Free Guidance

About Commentary Drives...

Although no longer a compulsory part of the Advanced Test, you will be encouraged by your observer to carry out a commentary for part of the time you are driving.

Many people find the thought of doing a commentary rather daunting, but with a little initial help from your observer, you will find that it is not as difficult as it sounds. You will also find that a commentary can raise your driving standard to new levels. All it requires is good concentration and the ability to observe things early, both ahead of, and all around your car.

Essentially, a commentary is just talking about what you are seeing and what you are going to do about it. It is as if you are trying to explain to a passenger new to driving, what hazards and other information you are seeing through the windows of the car, what the implications are, and how you are going to deal with it.

Your observer will gradually introduce you to the skills of giving a good commentary, and as you progress he will guide you into putting in more detail, and relating what you are seeing and saying to the system of car control.

The important requirement of a good commentary is early observation. This gives you the time you need to make your decisions as to what appropriate actions are needed and then be able put those actions into practice smoothly, competently, and effectively.