Actually going 40 on a 50kmph road constitutes road hogging to some extent... what I did was to go between 45-50. 40 on a 50kmph road is fine if traffic is heavy or there're a lot of vehicles, but if its light traffic the examiner can penalize you. It's the way it is.. they're extremely strict during test, so every little mistake counts against you.
Well what I suggest is to pick a good time slot. Since you said you'll be taking your re-test in Feb, try to schedule it before Chinese New Year. Most of my friends (who end up driving like crap if I may add) passed their TPs on the first attempt, and all of them took it before CNY. So... I think you should see the trend eh. Another thing is to book a slot where the roads are relatively clear, and if possible (and if you're taking at BBDC), steer clear from school dismissal timings. It's extremely annoying to have kids dash across the zebra crossings out of no where.. really makes you more nervous than you already are!
Be sure to wayang, or exaggerate your motions especially when you're checking your blind spot. If you're kiasu/kiasi enough, voice out "Checking blind spot..." but I can't gurantee that your examiner won't label you as a psycho though. But yes, EXAGGERATE your motions. Even if you're checking the rear mirror, move your entire head up to ensure that the examiner sees you doing so. Make an effort to show "courtesy to road users", aka give a friendly wave when people give way to you etc etc. Be confident of all your moves when you're driving - don't panic if you stall too, don't apologise. Just restart your engine, do your usual checks and drive off.
Oh yes and please por the tester too... literally translated, be an ass-kisser. Greet him with a smile (can be fake lar doesn't matter), wait for him to give you the green light to start your engine, address him by sir etc, basically you'll want to give him a good impression. Dress wise, I hope I won't offend anybody by saying this, but dress decently. Jeans + polo tee would be a good combination.. don't dress as though you're heading out for a night at Zouk, or too casually as though you couldn't be bothered with the test - first impressions do count, contrary to what people may tell you. If the examiner deems you as a young punk who's likely to speed once you get your license, your test will be living Hell.
Oh yes, and do pray that it doesn't rain on the day of your test... taking your driving test in the rain is one helluva killer experience.
Dishonesty at its very best - if you make a mistake that isn't too obvious, aka the examiner didn't notice, don't hesitate, pretend that it didn't happen and carry on as per normal. And don't be taken in by examiners who lean back, close their eyes and appear to be semi-asleep... they're just trying to see if you'll be complacent.
Lastly, try to avoid asking the examiner to repeat his instructions. If he tells you to "Turn left at this junction", just give him a quick reply and carry out his instructions. It doesn't reflect too well on you if you ask him "Turn left here ah?". It makes you look as if you're having some confidence issues.
Sorry for this super long post, but I sure hope it'll help you! All the best for your Class 3 TP!
