My “when in doubt” is to use neutral. Didn’t know the clutch could put it into neutral too?

The hill thing is so true!

When learning OP, just listen to the engine, as it helps you know when to shift up or down. I liked to shift down as a way to slow speed without brakes (not a screeching halt, but a gradual slow down).

Haven’t driven stick in a long time, but I think it’s a good skill to have.