I can't take notes; how can I remember the talks?

[mohamed]

Hi Erin,

I am planning to take the TOEFL CTB next month. I have a question regarding the Listening section, Can I use a scratch paper which usually provided by ETS in the exam center to write down some notes while the conversion is playing? especially the long conversion?
Please let me know.

Thanks



A clearer title will get you more responses!

Title edited by Erin.

[Erin]

No, you may NOT use any paper during the listening section.

[mohamed]

Then what do you recommend me to do. The problem is that I can understand the conversion while it's playing but after it's done, I couldn't remember most of it especially if it part of lecture in any of kind of sciences. Please advice.

Thanks

[Erin]

mohamed,

I know it can be hard to remember everything on the Listenting Section, so you'll have to do something to try to remember. The good thing is that TOEFL doesn't focus on details that much, only on the general idea of the talks.

That said, some basic memory techniques will help you to remember. First, try to visualize the setting--imagine the speakers, imagine their clothes, create images of the things mentioned in the talks. Second, try to figure out how you remember things best--for example, do you tend to remember things more with your eyes open or closed or perhaps even looking at the desk?

In short, you should probably just practice a lot and see what works best for you!