Learner driver and instructor preparing beside a parked learner car

Car study notes

Alertness

Staying focused: observation, anticipation, concentration and avoiding distraction and fatigue.

What this topic covers

Staying focused: observation, anticipation, concentration and avoiding distraction and fatigue. The full Car Driving Theory Test app contains 26 questions on this topic.

In the app's syllabus: Observation, Anticipation, Concentration, Awareness, Distraction, Boredom.

Worked examples

Here are a few practice questions from this topic. Try answering each before reading the explanation.

Example 1

Where should you avoid overtaking?

A. Approaching a dip in the road ✓ correct
B. On a dual carriageway
C. In a one-way street
D. Just after a bend

Explanation: Oncoming vehicles or other hazards can be hidden from view by dips in the road. If you cannot see into the dip, wait until you have a clear view and can see that it's safe before starting to overtake.

Example 2

You're turning right onto a dual carriageway. What should you do before emerging?

A. Make sure that you leave enough room for a vehicle behind
B. Check that the central reservation is wide enough for your vehicle ✓ correct
C. Position your vehicle well to the left of the side road
D. Stop, apply the parking brake and then select a low gear

Explanation: Before emerging right onto a dual carriageway, make sure that the central reservation is deep enough to protect your vehicle. If it's not, you should treat the dual carriageway as one road and check that it's clear in both directions before pulling out. Neglecting to do this could place part or all of your vehicle in the path of approaching traffic and cause a collision.

Example 3

When do windscreen pillars cause a serious obstruction to your view?

A. When you're approaching bends and junctions ✓ correct
B. When you're approaching a one-way street
C. When you're driving on a dual carriageway
D. When you're driving on a motorway

Explanation: Windscreen pillars can obstruct your view, particularly at bends and junctions. Look out for other road users – especially cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians who can easily be overlooked.

Example 4

What should you do before making a U-turn?

A. Check road markings to see that U-turns are permitted
B. Give an arm signal as well as using your indicators
C. Look over your shoulder for a final check ✓ correct
D. Select a higher gear than normal

Explanation: If you have to make a U-turn, slow down and make sure that the road is clear in both directions. Make sure that the road is wide enough for you to carry out the manoeuvre safely. Use your mirrors and look round to check it's safe before turning across the road.

Ready to test yourself?

Take the interactive quiz for Alertness.

Start Alertness quiz →

More Car study notes

Get all 26 questions on this topic in the Car Driving Theory Test app.