A manual transmission is a type of vehicle transmission that requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and gear stick. This system allows for greater control over the vehicle's power and speed, making it popular among driving enthusiasts. In a manual transmission, the driver engages the clutch to disconnect the engine from the wheels, allowing them to change gears. This process can enhance fuel efficiency and performance compared to automatic transmissions, which shift gears automatically without driver input.