Understanding the 'Show Me, Tell Me' Questions
The 'show me, tell me' questions are a mandatory component of the UK practical driving test. Before you even begin your drive, the examiner will ask you two questions. One will be a 'show me' question, and the other will be a 'tell me' question. These are designed to check your knowledge of vehicle safety and basic maintenance, ensuring you understand how to operate your vehicle safely and responsibly.
Getting these right demonstrates your awareness and competence, contributing positively to your overall test score. Failing to answer them correctly doesn't automatically mean you'll fail the test, but it will result in a mark, impacting your chances. Therefore, thorough preparation is key to feeling confident when the examiner poses them.
- Examiner asks two vehicle safety questions.
- One is 'show me', one is 'tell me'.
- Tests knowledge of car operation and safety.
- Preparation is vital for confidence.
What are 'Show Me' Questions?
A 'show me' question requires you to demonstrate a particular action on the vehicle. You will need to point to or operate a control or feature while the vehicle is stationary, usually before you start driving, or sometimes during the test if it's safe to do so (e.g., at a stop). These questions assess your ability to locate and operate essential controls without needing to consult a manual. It’s about practical, hands-on knowledge of your car’s features.
For example, you might be asked to show the examiner where you would check the engine oil level, or how you would demist the front windscreen. The examiner wants to see that you can identify the correct control and operate it correctly, or show them the location of a safety feature. Clarity and directness are important; ensure you can clearly indicate the control or feature being asked about.
What are 'Tell Me' Questions?
A 'tell me' question, conversely, asks you to explain how you would carry out a safety check or describe the procedure for a particular task. You don't need to physically operate anything for these; it's purely about your theoretical knowledge and understanding of vehicle safety. The examiner is listening for a clear, concise explanation of the steps involved or the safety checks you would perform.
Typical 'tell me' questions might involve explaining how to check your tyre pressures, or how to switch on the rear fog lights. Your answer should be accurate and cover the essential points. It’s crucial to understand the 'why' behind the check, not just the 'how'. For instance, explaining that tyre pressure affects fuel efficiency and safety adds weight to your answer.
Common 'Show Me, Tell Me' Questions for the Driving Test
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) provides a list of potential 'show me, tell me' questions that candidates may be asked. While the exact questions can vary, familiarising yourself with this list is the most effective way to prepare. Understanding the rationale behind each question will help you provide confident and accurate answers.
It's worth noting that the car used for your test must be fitted with dual controls and be properly insured for a driving test. The examiner will check the vehicle's roadworthiness and safety before the test begins, and the 'show me, tell me' questions are part of this pre-drive inspection. Practising these questions with your instructor or a friend can build your confidence significantly.
Sample 'Tell Me' Questions and Answers
Here are some common 'tell me' questions you might encounter. Remember, clarity and accuracy are key.
- Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure they are safe to use.
You should inspect for cuts or bulges on the sidewalls and check that the tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the breadth of the tyre, with no worn patches.
- Tell me where you would find the information for the tyre pressure and how to check the tyre pressure.
The tyre pressure information is usually found in the vehicle's handbook or on a sticker in the door frame or fuel filler cap. You check the pressure using a reliable tyre pressure gauge, comparing the reading to the recommended pressure.
- Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and why you would use them.
Operate the switch (often on the dashboard or steering column). You would use them when visibility is seriously reduced, typically in fog, and switch them off when visibility improves.
- Tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
Turn off the engine, wait for it to cool slightly. Locate the dipstick, pull it out, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again. Check that the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks.
- Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working.
You would operate the brake pedal and ask an examiner or a passer-by to check if the brake lights illuminate. Alternatively, you can use reflections in windows or a wall to see them.
Sample 'Show Me' Questions and Answers
These 'show me' questions require you to physically demonstrate something on the vehicle.
- Show me how you would demist the front windscreen.
Turn on the engine, select the windscreen fan speed, turn on the air conditioning (if fitted), and direct the vents towards the front windscreen.
- Show me where you would check the engine oil level and show me how you would check the tyre tread levels.
For oil, locate the dipstick (usually marked with a yellow or orange loop) and pull it out. For tyre tread, point to the tread depth indicator bars within the main tread pattern of a tyre, or show how to use a tread depth gauge.
- Show me how you would set the heated rear window to clear it.
Locate the heated rear window button (usually on the dashboard) and press it. The button usually illuminates to indicate it is active.
- Show me how you would turn on your dipped headlights.
Locate the light switch (usually on the dashboard or steering column) and turn it to the headlight position. The dashboard light symbol will illuminate to show they are on.
- Show me how you would open the bonnet (hood) and tell me how you would use the secondary bonnet release.
Locate the bonnet release lever inside the car (usually under the dashboard on the driver's side), pull it. Then, locate the secondary latch under the front of the bonnet and lift it to open the bonnet fully.
How to Prepare for 'Show Me, Tell Me' Questions
Effective preparation for the 'show me, tell me' section of your driving test boils down to knowledge, practice, and confidence. Since these questions are asked at the start of the test, a strong performance here sets a positive tone for the rest of your assessment.
The most crucial step is to obtain the official list of questions from the DVSA website or ask your driving instructor. Familiarise yourself with every question on that list. Understand not just what the answer is, but why it's the correct answer. For 'tell me' questions, knowing the safety implications or the function of a control is vital. For 'show me' questions, it's about knowing the exact location and operation of controls without fumbling.
Practice these questions regularly with your driving instructor. They will have experience with what examiners are looking for and can offer feedback. If you're practising in a family car, ensure you know its specific controls and features. Some cars have different button placements or operation methods, so practice in the car you intend to use for your test if possible.
Ask your instructor to quiz you on these questions repeatedly, simulating test conditions. This repetition helps embed the knowledge and builds muscle memory for the physical demonstrations required in 'show me' questions.
Practising 'Show Me' Demonstrations
For 'show me' questions, it's not enough to just know where the control is. You need to be able to locate and operate it smoothly and confidently. Before your test, spend time sitting in the driver's seat (when the engine is off) and physically locate each control required for the 'show me' questions. Point to it, explain what it does briefly, and demonstrate its basic function if safe and appropriate.
For instance, when asked to show how you would demist the front windscreen, point to the relevant dial or button, turn it to the appropriate setting, and perhaps indicate the direction of the airflow. The examiner wants to see you know precisely where to go and what to do, without hesitation. Don't be afraid to ask your instructor for clarification on how best to demonstrate any particular function.
Practising 'Tell Me' Explanations
When it comes to 'tell me' questions, precision in your explanation is paramount. Avoid vague answers. For example, when asked about tyre safety, stating "I'd check they look okay" isn't sufficient. A better answer would mention checking for cuts, bulges, and importantly, the tread depth of at least 1.6mm. Similarly, for oil checks, mention both the dipstick and the minimum/maximum markers.
Listen carefully to the exact wording of the question. Sometimes, the question might ask for a specific aspect, like how to check the *pressure* versus how to check the *tread*. Your answers should directly address what's being asked. Practise articulating your answers clearly and concisely. The goal is to provide a complete, accurate, and easy-to-understand explanation that satisfies the examiner's criteria.
What Happens If You Get a 'Show Me, Tell Me' Question Wrong?
It’s a common concern for learners: what if I don't answer the 'show me, tell me' questions correctly? The good news is that getting one or both of these questions wrong does not automatically mean you will fail your driving test. The DVSA views these questions as a way to assess your understanding of vehicle safety, but they are not the sole determinant of your success.
The examiner will award a driving fault (a minor mark) for each incorrect answer. Accumulating more than 15 driving faults throughout the test will result in a fail. Therefore, while it's important to try your best, do not let the anxiety of these questions overshadow the rest of your driving performance. A few minor marks here are less critical than serious or dangerous faults, which lead to immediate failure.
Focus on driving safely and demonstrating good all-round driving skills. If you are unsure about a question, it's better to give your best attempt rather than say nothing. The examiner is looking for your understanding and ability to apply it, so a well-reasoned but perhaps slightly incomplete answer is often better than no answer at all.
The Role of These Questions in the Test
The 'show me, tell me' questions are integrated into the driving test to ensure drivers have a foundational understanding of their vehicle's safety features and basic maintenance. This knowledge is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the vehicle remains in a roadworthy condition. It’s a proactive measure to promote road safety.
The examiner will ask these questions at the beginning of the test, typically before you set off on the main driving part of the assessment. This allows them to gauge your preparedness regarding vehicle operation and safety checks. Your performance on these questions, alongside your general driving ability, situational awareness, and independent driving, all contribute to the final assessment.
Remember the 'tell me' answers might be asked when the engine is off, but 'show me' answers might require you to operate controls while the car is stationary, before you move off.
Tips for Staying Calm and Confident
Nerves are natural before a driving test, but there are ways to manage them. Thorough preparation is the best antidote to anxiety. When you know you've covered all the potential questions and practised your demonstrations, you'll feel more in control. Talk to your instructor about your nerves; they can provide reassurance and coping strategies.
During the test, take a moment to breathe deeply before the examiner asks the questions. Listen carefully to each question. If you don't understand, politely ask the examiner to repeat it. It is perfectly acceptable to say, 'Could you repeat that, please?'. For 'show me' questions, take a second to locate the control before operating it – a brief pause is better than a frantic search.
Ultimately, the driving test is a measure of your ability to drive safely and competently. The 'show me, tell me' questions are just one part of that assessment. By preparing adequately and staying calm, you can approach this section with confidence.
Vehicle Safety Checks Beyond 'Show Me, Tell Me'
While the 'show me, tell me' questions cover specific vehicle safety aspects, a competent driver must understand and perform a wider range of checks. These broader checks ensure the vehicle is not just roadworthy but also operating efficiently and safely under various conditions. Your driving instructor will cover these in detail throughout your lessons.
These checks often involve a combination of visual inspections and, where possible, practical tests. For instance, checking lights involves not just knowing how to switch them on (a 'show me' task) but also verifying that all bulbs – headlights, taillights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights – are functioning correctly. This often requires a second person or using reflections.
Pre-Drive Safety Checks
Before setting off on any journey, a driver should perform a quick visual check of the vehicle. This includes:
- Tyre condition: Looking for obvious damage, ensuring they are inflated correctly (you can often tell by looking, but a gauge is definitive).
- Lights: Checking that all lights are clean and working.
- Mirrors: Ensuring mirrors are clean and correctly positioned.
- Bodywork: A quick glance for any new damage or loose parts.
- Windscreen and windows: Checking for damage and ensuring they are clear of obstructions.
Checks During the Drive
Some safety checks can be performed while driving. For example, you should be aware of the dashboard warning lights and know what they mean. If a warning light illuminates, you need to know the correct procedure – which often means pulling over safely as soon as possible and consulting your vehicle's manual.
You also need to be mindful of the vehicle's behaviour. Unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in handling could indicate a problem that needs immediate attention. This demonstrates a deeper level of driver responsibility than simply answering questions correctly.
Understanding Your Vehicle's Dashboard
The dashboard is your primary interface with the vehicle's operational status. It contains warning lights, gauges for fuel and temperature, and controls for various functions. Understanding these elements is critical for safe driving.
- Warning Lights: These are crucial. Red lights usually indicate a serious problem requiring immediate attention (e.g., brake system warning, engine temperature too high). Amber or yellow lights often indicate a cautionary issue that needs checking soon (e.g., engine management light, tyre pressure warning).
- Gauges: Fuel gauge tells you how much fuel you have. The temperature gauge indicates the engine's operating temperature. Some vehicles also have an oil pressure gauge.
- Other Indicators: Turn signal indicators, main beam warning, and cruise control indicators are also vital for safe operation.
If a warning light appears on your dashboard, consult your vehicle's handbook immediately for advice on what action to take.
Mastering these broader vehicle safety checks, alongside the specific 'show me, tell me' questions, will not only help you pass your driving test but also make you a safer and more responsible driver on the road.