Look your professor in the eye when he gives a lecture. If you stare around the room, you will lose focus. If you have a question, raise your hand when the professor is finished with a sentence.
Because you are unlikely to retain every word your professor says in your head, you must take notes. Instead of writing down every sentence your professor says, focus on the main points. Using abbreviations that you understand will speed up the note-taking process. If your professor is speaking too fast, raise your hand and ask her to repeat the information you missed. If your notes are not as neat as you want, rewrite them after class is dismissed.
Distractions, whether they are internal or external, can get in the way of effectively listening to your professor. Eliminate external distractions by sitting away from the door or windows, so you won't be bothered by students walking in late or the construction outside. Internal distractions are in your mind, such as an argument you had with your friend or a trip you're planning with your family. Clear your mind and try to focus on the lecture the best you can.
During a lecture, your professor will present verbal and nonverbal cues indicating important information. For example, when he says, "To recap," he is repeating information. If you missed something he said earlier in the lecture, it is important to listen carefully. If he raises his voice during a lecture, he is likely discussing the most important information in the lecture.
If you think the subject matter of a course is boring before you enter the classroom, it is easy to not pay attention to the lecture. Instead of dismissing the course as dull, keep an open mind. If you focus on listening to your professor's lecture, you may learn new and interesting information.