If you’re learning to drive, mastering the MSPSL routine is a crucial step toward becoming a confident and safe driver. MSPSL stands for Mirror, Signal, Position, Speed, Look, and it’s one of the core techniques taught in driving lessons to handle a variety of road situations.
In this blog, we’ll break down the MSPSL routine step-by-step, explain why it’s important for safe driving, and provide actionable tips for learners to apply it on the road.
Why is the MSPSL Routine Important?
Learning the MSPSL routine helps you anticipate hazards, communicate with other road users, and navigate complex driving situations like junctions, roundabouts, and lane changes with ease. For beginner drivers, this systematic approach is key to building good habits and boosting confidence behind the wheel.
MSPSL Routine: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Mirror: Check Your Surroundings
Always check your mirrors before making a manoeuvre. This gives you a clear view of traffic behind and to the sides of your vehicle.
- Use your interior mirror to monitor vehicles directly behind.
- Check the door mirrors to spot traffic in adjacent lanes or blind spots.
Pro Tip: Always check in pairs—first the interior mirror, then the door mirror relevant to your manoeuvre.
2. Signal: Communicate Your Intentions
Use your indicators to let other road users know what you plan to do. Signalling early and clearly allows drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to react accordingly.
Why It’s Important: Clear signalling improves safety and ensures smoother traffic flow, especially in busy areas.
3. Position: Prepare Your Vehicle
Position your car correctly depending on your planned movement.
- For a left turn, the position often doesn’t change.
- For a right turn, position your car just left of the centre line, where safe and legal.
Pro Tip: Avoid abrupt positioning changes as this can confuse other drivers.
4. Speed: Adjust Accordingly
Control your speed to match the road conditions and prepare for the next stage of your manoeuvre.
- Slow down as needed using the footbrake.
- Select the appropriate gear if you’re driving a manual car.
Pro Tip: Practicing smooth braking and speed adjustments ensures better vehicle control.
5. Look: Scan the Road Ahead
Finally, check that it’s safe to proceed. This involves scanning all directions for hazards, including pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
- Look ahead, to the sides, and into junctions or roundabouts.
- Be aware of blind spots and unexpected obstacles.
Pro Tip: Develop a habit of looking early to avoid rushed decisions.
When Should You Use the MSPSL Routine?
The MSPSL routine is essential in many common driving scenarios, including:
- Approaching junctions: Ensure safe entry and exit by following MSPSL.
- Changing lanes: Check mirrors, signal early, and position smoothly.
- Navigating roundabouts: Adjust your speed, position correctly, and look for gaps in traffic.
- Overtaking: Use the routine to ensure it’s safe and clear to pass another vehicle.
Discover More Driving Acronyms
The MSPSL routine is just one of many essential acronyms you’ll encounter as you learn to drive. From LADA (Look, Assess, Decide, Act) to POM, (Prepare, Observe, Move) these acronyms simplify the learning process and help you develop safer driving habits.
Want to explore more driving acronyms and techniques? Check out our Online Course, where we cover all the key concepts and routines to help you become a skilled and confident driver.