The attempt to visualize the thought of the speaker is the best method of directing your attention to his subject.
Use the Hitching Post
When listening to instructions, or a lecture, in which there are different points which you wish to carry away and later recall accurately, use the Hitching Post idea. Run over a series of words so as to be sure that they will come readily when wanted. When a point is made which you wish to remember, transfer the thought into a quick visual impression, and Hitch it to the first object of your list. When a second important point is made, make a visual impression with the next object. Make your picture strong by exaggeration and motion, and be sure that you photograph each one.
In this manner you can file away any number of points. As soon as the lecture is over review the pictures, see each clearly a second time. If you have trouble recalling one make the picture stronger so that you will recall it more easily next time. Review the entire list of points visualized with the different Hitching Posts. If you wish to fix them in mind review them several times in the next few days, so that you make a permanent impression of them.
Transfer to Note-Book
A great many prefer the idea of transferring these points into a classified note book, where they are available for use at any future time.
One student tells of having written fifteen pages of notes from four talks which he heard at a convention, and that some of these notes were not transferred from his mind to the note-book for at least ten days after the talks were heard.
Form the habit of letting the lecturer make you SEE what he describes. The visual impression which you make will increase your understanding of anything you hear or read, and at the same time very materially assist you in remembering it.