My 2004 elantra gt (5 speed) will not start. When i push in the clutch, it acts as if the clutch was not pushed in at all. after a few minutes of manipulating the clutch in and out, it will finally start. the clutch does not act up at all except for this.

Is a start signal reaching the starter solenoid, check that 1st.

Check the crank sensor maybe it was damaged or fogot to connect it

I cannot remember the name of the darn thing but it is an activator switch that tells your transmission the clutch is engaged. If it is not that I would say it is your clutch itself.

you need check your clutch master cylinder and the slave cylinder and lines for licks if all ok need change your clutch

It sounds like you may have a vacuum leak, or 2
Check all hoses around gearbox and engine to ensure they are all a snug fit and do not appear worn or split. You can check for vacuum leaks by spraying a mist in the direct area and watch to see if it gets sucked in. Move each hose around while at idle to see if the revs change.
Good Luck I hope it helps

I would be checking the throwout bearing. But, if the clutch isn't slipping, maybe leave it for now?

If you put it in 5th gear, let out the clutch with handbrake applied and it stalls--the clutch isn't slipping for sure.

Hi:
The shift pattern is pretty much the same on all 5 speed cars. The top row is the odd numbers, 1-3-5
the bottom row is 2-4-Reverse. The center position is neutral

Here is the key: The shifter is slightly spring-loaded to the center position. If you hold in the clutch pedal and pull the shifter to neutral, and let go of it, it will automatically be lined up in the position, that if you pushed it forward , it would go to 3rd gear, and if you pulled it back, it would go into 4th gear.
This way, to start driving, you start out in neutral, grab the shifter lightly, and push it first to the left, then forward. This is first gear, where you start out. when you want to shift to second, push in the clutch, and keeping left pressure on the shifter, pull all the way back . Here is the easy part, 2nd to 3rd. When you are ready, push in the clutch, and just push the gear shift forward , till it hits neutral, and is spring loaded to the middle. Then you just push it straight forward to 3rd, then next shift, straight back to 4th.
Last gear, 5th: push forward to the neutral row, then Push to the right till it lines up ,and forward to the 5th gear. Reverse should only be shifted into from a dead stop. Find neutral, push the shifter all the way right, then pull back towards you. Hope this helps.
Practice a bunch in the driveway!

sounds like the clutch is worn out and requires replacement.

try tightening your clutch cable