Starting from a Stop in 1st Gear - Need tips, My fifth day driving stick Options

[Celicav]

Well, I just got a Manual GT Hatchback, and yesterday was essentially my fifth day of driving stick. I drove it in "real" bumper-to-bumper traffic for the first time, and that was an enlightening experience. My start from a stop is only smooth about half the time, if that, so it was pretty stressful. Any tips or instructions on how to get a smooth start every time? I need very specific info on the clutch and gas pedal position (or RPMs) at the point the car should start moving. I try to remember exactly how I managed a smooth start when I do it, but that is difficult at this time. Thanks!

P.S. Any other tips on making driving stick a more enjoyable experience would be great too!

[AMCMoe]

Like digndoug said, Let the clutch out a little bit until it starts to grab. Make sure you don't let it out too much or you'll stall, but let it out enough so its at the point where you can let off the break and give it gas quick enough without rolling into the car behind you. Slowly let out the clutch while you give it gas, that will make for a smooth start. Once you start going forward, make sure you let the clutch out slowly whiling giving it gas, even if you're worried about the car behind you or something. Don't worry about what other drivers think. A lot of them have gone through the same thing you are. It's much less embarassing starting slowly than letting the clutch out far too quickly, jerking back and forth then stalling. Good luck!