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!

[lagos]

just remember...once u get the hang of it, youll never want to go back to an automatic again

[Mystify.]

just remember...once u get the hang of it, youll never want to go back to an automatic again
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Heh, yeah..I've only been driving a stick for about two weeks and I love it. Now I find automatics to be boring, and almost confusing at the same time. I had to drive my mom's car one day and almost burned out trying to reverse out of a parking spot (because I'm used to having a clutch). As to starting out in first, I usually just let my clutch out just before the catch point then start giving it gas and letting the clutch out smoothly and slowly (then just pop the clutch in and coast if I'm in start and stop traffic). You'll get the hang of it, you just need to learn where your clutches' friction point is, from there it's smooth sailing. Have fun starting on hills if you haven't yet, just remember not to panic if you start rolling.