How is gear shifting executed in a manual transmission?

Shifting gears in a manual transmission involves disengaging the clutch before selecting the desired gear. This is because the clutch serves as a mechanical connection between the engine and the transmission. When the clutch pedal is pressed, it disconnects this link, allowing the driver to change gears smoothly without grinding the gears or damaging the transmission components. By shifting to the desired gear after disengaging the clutch, the driver ensures that the engine can match the speed of the wheels in that gear, providing a smooth transfer of power.

The other options do not accurately depict the proper method for gear shifting in a manual transmission. Pressing the brake pedal alone does not assist in changing gears and can lead to stalling the engine if the vehicle is not in motion. Shifting without using the clutch is risky and may lead to premature wear or damage to the transmission, as it requires matching the engine and transmission speeds perfectly. Lastly, accelerating while in neutral does not facilitate any gear shift and can be unsafe, as it removes any power transfer that is necessary for controlling the vehicle’s speed.