SammyTheSnake wrote:The HPT is a bit harder to prepare for, just click when a hazard actually *develops* rather than threatens. Eg. when a pedestrian walks along the pavement, don't click. When he turns to leave the pavement, start clicking and click about once a second until the hazard is resolved (usually by the camera car stopping or the hazard turning out not to be a problem)
I did my PCV theory test recently (I believe HPT is the same for all types) and believe the above is good advice.
One of the problems advanced drivers have and indeed many experienced drivers is identifying all potential hazards, clicking all over the place and being disqualified for too much clicking.
Another is trying to identify the point at which the 5 points are up for grabs.
First thing to remember is the only hazards to worry about are from other road users and not physical features such as corners or junctions.
Secondly, the points 'window' is set when the hazard develops as Sammy as said but this is in the opinion of whoever sets the test. If you click momentarily before the window opens, think you've covered it and don't click again it will be 'nill points'
My strategy was to click when I identified the potential hazard and click at each point when the situation changed slightly right through the hazard.
As Sammy says you are allowed quite a few clicks; I averaged 6 or 7 per clip.
eg I click when I first see a cyclist (ahead and away from me); again when an oncoming car appears (possible 3 a breast), again when cyclist looks round and a few times as he moves out.
This way you are bound to cover the 'window'
I got 10 5s
2 4s
and a 3 so either I was very lucky or the strategy paid off.
Many advanced motorists who are ADIs have had to retake the theory test because they treat it like an advanced hazard perception test.