Article: When it comes time to shift gears, use your left foot to engage the clutch by pushing the pedal to the floor. Push the pedal down smoothly rather than stomping it. This will put the engine in neutral so you can transition between gears. Do not engage the clutch until you're ready to change gears or you could cause the car to lurch and make for an uncomfortable ride. The gear shift in the middle console has a center position that allows you to put the engine in the neutral gear. You'll know you're in the neutral position when you can wiggle the stick freely from side to side. The clutch must be engaged in order for you to move the gear shift into neutral. RPM refers to revolutions per minute and it's a measurement of how fast your engine is operating. On your dash is a gauge that shows the RPMs. When you're driving and the RPMs reach the 2500 range, it's time for you to shift into the next higher gear. Shifting when it's the right time will make the vehicle drive smoother. After you've moved the gear shift into the gear that you want, slowly release your left foot from the clutch as you gently apply pressure to the accelerator pedal. With practice, you will feel the engine change gears smoothly. Every engine is a little bit different. Practice changing gears to make the transition smoother. Once the engine has transitioned to another gear and the accelerator is pressed, you can let up on the clutch. This will fully engage the engine in the gear you've shifted to. Keep your foot near the clutch in case you need to change gears again.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Press the clutch to the floor when you're ready to change gears. Move the gear shift into the neutral position. Shift into the next gear when the RPM reaches 2500. Release the clutch slowly and gently press on the accelerator. Remove any pressure from the clutch once the gear is engaged.