Manoeuvres like reversing into a bay or parallel parking often bring stress to learner drivers. But with the right techniques and mindset, you can turn them into strengths.

So, what’s the trick to mastering them?

First off – patience. These skills require a mix of control, timing, and awareness. And yes, mistakes are part of learning. Every driver has struggled with them at some point.

I thought I’d never get bay parking right – then one day, it just clicked.

– Mo.

Break it down.

Your instructor will teach you each manoeuvre step by step. By focusing on small sections; mirror checks, points of turn, control of speed, you can remove the fear and keep control.

Use your reference points.

Instructors will help you find visual markers on your car or in your environment to help judge positioning. These points take the guesswork out of reversing and build consistency.

Stay calm and take your time.

Rushing is the enemy of precision. Keep the car moving slowly, and remember, you’re allowed to pause, reassess, and adjust. There’s no rush during the test, the key is control and accuracy, not speed.

Don’t fear the corrections.

If it’s not perfect, correct it! Even in the test, reversing manoeuvres can be adjusted. Showing awareness and correction is better than continuing with a mistake.

With regular practice and some patience, reversing becomes second nature – not something to dread.