The first stage of effective listening should happen before the conversation or class even starts. This stage prepares you mentally for what you will hear. By shifting your attention before the communication begins, you will be better prepared to understand the message. Just remember the acronym R.E.A.D.Y. (An acronym is a memory device that uses the first letter of several words to form a clue word.)
Review
Eliminate
Anticipate
Determine
Yank