How to tell if a clutch is on the way out?

[rumplestiltskin]

With my 996TT coming up to 25k miles on its original clutch and the fact I do more stop start driving than I used to, I am pretty sure the clutch will need replacing some time soon.
What are the tell-tale signs that a clutch could be nearing replacement? Clutch judder from standing start? Clutch slip (what exactly is that?) Difficulty getting into gear?
When the car was in for a major service 3 months ago I asked the OPC to check the clutch for wear & they said it was “fine” though quite how they knew this I don’t know.

Any advice appreciated.

[rumplestiltskin]

I have been told that over time the clutch plate can get dust etc on it & esp if you are very sympathetic towards your clutch and its a good thing every so often to do a full bore start to get rid of this....any thoughts on this?

[rumplestiltskin]

henry - thanks for this.
I have non of the symptoms below, except judder in reverse - quite bad usually. Should I get it looked at ?