Watch the direction of travel
Pip keeps moving along a curved path between inputs. The next tap changes how that path bends; it does not instantly change the direction Pip is already facing. Watch the short trail and the next gap together. If you wait until Pip is beside a branch, reversing the curve may come too late because the new bend still needs room to develop.
Use a consistent reference run
Choose Classic and leave the companion unchanged for several attempts. Notice where a successful approach begins, not just the moment you cross an opening. If an attempt fails, ask whether Pip reached the gap too high, too low, or with too little forward progress. Those are different problems. Repeating the same opening makes the effect of one earlier or later tap easier to see.
Keep Pip available as a comparison
Unlocking another companion does not replace Pip or make the original choice obsolete. Moss adds downward drift and a wider circle, while Ember adds upward drift and a tighter circle. Return to Pip whenever you want to separate a new companion’s movement from your existing timing habits. Personal bests are kept separately for each companion and course, so trying another choice does not overwrite Pip’s record. Choose Pip because its motion suits you, rather than treating the unlock sequence as a ranking of stronger characters.