Road Signs, Markings and Signals
The three families
Signs fall into three groups, and recognising the group often answers the question before you read the symbol. Warning signs are triangular with a red border. Regulatory signs are circular: red-ringed circles prohibit, blue circles instruct. Informational and direction signs are rectangular and usually blue or green. Temporary signs for roadworks are commonly yellow.
Markings you must read fluently
Continuous lines mean do not cross; broken lines may be crossed when safe. Double continuous lines are the strictest form. A continuous line on your side of a broken line means you may not cross. Box junctions and yellow zig-zag areas near crossings prohibit stopping. Stop lines and give-way lines carry different duties: at a stop line you must come to a complete stop, at a give-way line you stop only if necessary.
Signals
Traffic light sequences, flashing amber, filter arrows and pedestrian phases all appear in questions. A flashing amber at a pedestrian crossing means give way to pedestrians on the crossing. Lane control signals and temporary signs during works override permanent markings.
Traps
Questions like to place a sign where its group is the clue: a red circle never warns, it prohibits. Another common trap is a marking partly covered by slow traffic or night conditions, so learn the shape and position, not just the paint.
Rule of thumb
Name the sign's family first, then the symbol. For markings, ask whether crossing the line would take you into oncoming traffic.
Worked example
A question shows a single continuous line on your side and a broken line on the other. You may cross only if you are on the side with the broken line. Answering that either vehicle may cross is wrong.