Which statement best defines active listening?

• A. Active Listening
• B. Hearing
• C. Passive Listening
• D. Skimming

Answer: (A)

Active listening means fully engaging with the speaker: you give your complete attention, try to understand the message, respond in a way that shows you understood, and remember the details. It’s more than just hearing the words; it’s actively processing what’s being said, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back what you heard.

Hearing is just the physical act of perceiving sounds, with no necessary engagement. Passive listening is when you aren’t actively trying to understand or respond, maybe letting thoughts wander. Skimming is about reading quickly to get a general sense, not listening or processing a message in depth. Because active listening encompasses attention, understanding, response, and retention, it best defines the concept.