Show Me Tell Me (Part 1)

How the UK Driving Test’s Safety Questions Set The Tone For Your Journey and Boost Road Safety

Introduction

The Show Me Tell Me portion of the UK driving test is often treated as a quick checkpoint, but when answered well it does far more than unlock a pass.

These questions, which test your knowledge of vehicle safety checks and your ability to handle controls, establish the safety-first mindset every new driver brings to the road. Done right, they tell the examiner—and future you, that you’ll prioritise safe driving from day one.

What are ‘Show Me Tell Me’ Questions?

• Tell Me questions are asked before you set off
• They require you to explain how you would check a specific vehicle function
• For example, how you’d verify the brakes are working before starting a journey or where you’d locate the recommended tyre pressures
• Show Me questions are asked while you’re driving.
• You demonstrate how to operate a control
• These relate to the windows and the horn

Why Doing Them Well Sets the Tone for the Test?

• Demonstrates a safety-first habit: A clear, correct answer or a smooth, controlled demonstration signals that safety is integrated into your driving mindset.
• Reflects real-world readiness: In everyday driving, checks and control use are constant. If you handle Show Me Tell Me confidently, you show you’d routinely perform essential checks.
• Reduces anxiety and builds flow: When you’ve prepared these questions, you’re not scrambling for answers beginning or mid-test. A practiced routine helps you stay composed, which can translate into steadier driving and better overall performance.

The Broader Road Safety Purpose

Establishing Safe Habits

The questions promote proactive vehicle checks, internal, external and levels in the engine bay, which all drivers should perform regularly. This daily discipline reduces the likelihood of a fault-related incident after the test.

Early Fault Detection

By evaluating your ability to spot potential problems before they become hazards, the test encourages a culture of pre-drive vigilance that benefits all road users.

Public Safety Impact

When new drivers enter the road with a habit of routine checks and correct control usage, the incident rate related to basic vehicle faults and improper operation tends to fall, contributing to safer roads for everyone.

FLOWERY Checks

A common routine used by drivers post-test: Fuel, Lights, Oil, Water, Electrics, Rubber and Yourself.

How to Prepare Effectively

Learn the Official Scope

Familiarise yourself with the Show Me Tell Me and questions and the practical actions or explanations they require. Use reputable sources such as the official GOV.UK guidance and your driving instructor materials.

Practice with Purpose

Work through a set of practice questions with a partner or instructor. Do both Tell Me explanations and Show Me demonstrations in a controlled, safe environment.

Create a Simple Pre-Drive Checklist

Before your practice drives, run through a quick routine: tyre condition, tyre pressure if you have a gauge, brakes, lights, indicators, windscreen and wipers, mirrors, and seat/steering position. This helps you respond naturally during the Show Me Tell Me parts of your test.

Stay Calm and Speak Clearly to the Examiner

Clear communication supports your overall driving impression.