I first learned the truck (non-synchro) transmissions, where you match engine speed in order to shift without a clutch. But the match must be exact, especially on an upshift. On a downshift you can apply a little pressure to the stick while slowly revving up and the transmission will suck the stick into place. Today the truck drivers are taught to clutch, on the basis that you don't need to exactly match rpms. Only need to push the pedal in about half way. All the way in and the clutch brake starts working. The clutch brake is there so you can go from neutral to a gear while the truck is not moving. It's now illegal (federal) to leave a truck in neutral on the road. Took me a long time to learn to clutch a truck, and I "cheated" (no clutch) as much as I could.

My mother was taught to "hold a hill" because those cars didn't have synchros or clutch brakes. Today they (and our MBs) have synchros. I learned this technique from a mechanic/racer: crack the foot throttle back while gently pulling the stick out of gear (the synchro isn't used here). Then use the clutch to put the stick into the next gear (where the synchro is used and the clutch is needed). Use as much clutch as you need, which depends on wear and shift timing. I'll admit it's a learning curve and it takes practice to change old habits, but it's the only way to minimize wear on a clutch AND a synchro transmission.

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daBenz - 1970 220D