Here are some general tips or ‘strategies’ that may help you when you have to listen in English.
When do you need to listen in English?
In your English Class?
In a meeting at work?
In an interview or an oral exam?
While watching a DVD?
On holiday or on a profession trip?
I’m sure you can add other situations.
Predicting
Before listening take a few moments to predict the content of the recorded dialogues.
Look at the title of the dialogue.
Are there any images to help you with the situation such as charts or photos?
A particular detail?
You may be asked to listen for particular details,
it is often important to ‘catch’ crucial information in your professional or academic life.
Try to predict. If you are listening for a particular number, what type of number do you expect?
A percentage, a date, a fraction…
Will it be a large or small number?
Recalling and understanding details
You will often need to remember and understand more than one specific detail while you are listening.
Here are two useful tips.
Maintain your focus
Actively predicting the content of the dialogue while listening.
Note taking
While listening make a few notes, it will help you concentrate on what is being said.
It will help you to remember the key points and help achieve a deeper understand.