Which of the following sets lists components of active listening?

• A. Sit with arms crossed and look away
• B. Focus on your own goals rather than content
• C. Make eye contact, face the speaker, nod, wait before speaking, repeat information, ask questions, clarify understanding, focus on content, ignore distractions, and remain still
• D. Interrupt frequently to ask questions

Answer: (C)

Active listening relies on both attention to what the speaker is saying and deliberate responses that show you understand. The best set includes the key behaviors that communicate engagement and comprehension: making eye contact and facing the speaker signal you’re focused; nodding and waiting before speaking show you’re processing the message rather than rushing to respond; repeating information or paraphrasing helps confirm you understood correctly; asking questions and clarifying understanding deepens the exchange; focusing on the content rather than your own agenda ensures you’re listening to the message itself; managing distractions so you can stay attentive strengthens the connection; and a calm, still posture supports a receptive mindset.

The other options describe disengagement or interrupting behaviors, which undermine active listening: crossing arms and looking away communicates distance; prioritizing your own goals over what’s being said shows misfocused listening; interrupting breaks the speaker’s flow and stops you from fully understanding the message.