Which listening approach focuses on understanding and responding to the speaker by paying close attention and avoiding planning a reply while listening?

• A. Reflective listening
• B. Passive listening
• C. Active listening
• D. Rote listening

Answer: (C)

Active listening centers on understanding the speaker's message and responding in a way that shows you’ve grasped what they’re saying. It means giving your full attention, picking up both words and nonverbal cues, and then reflecting or clarifying to confirm understanding. A key part of this approach is not planning your reply while the person is talking; you listen first, absorb the message, and only then respond thoughtfully. This practice helps you validate the speaker, reduce miscommunication, and tailor your response to what was actually said. In contrast, passive listening involves little engagement, and rote listening is a mechanical, mindless repetition without processing the meaning. Reflective listening, a technique often used within active listening, involves restating what you heard to show understanding—yet the overall approach described here is best captured by active listening.