Golden rules

Put another way, these are some basic principles to try and stick to.  I learned these more from driving-experience than book-learning, or even "L-plate practice" :

​You're in charge : TAKE YOUR TIME.
Drive as fast as you can RESPOND to changes, not just REACT.
Make it easy—slow down to separate the hazards.
Time your arrival.
​Choose your moment.
Fast eyes & brain; slow hands & feet.
Speed & direction before gears & signals.
Think about the future; don't worry about the past : what matters is before you.
​Less space; less speed.
More paint; more danger.
If in doubt, don't pull out.
​Plan to go but be prepared to stop.
​Be cautious, not hesitant.​

These are very true in general, but there WILL always be exceptions.