Listen for important cues

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Introduction and conclusion

These often summarise the main points of the lecture.

Argument structure

Words such as first, second, also, furthermore, moreover, therefore, and finally indicate stages in the lecturer's argument.

But and however indicate a qualification.

Because indicates a reason.

On the one hand and on the other hand indicate a contrast.

Signalling words

(The lecturer signals what s/he is trying to do from point to point)

• Introducing the lecture:
  
  "I want to start by ..."

• Introduction of a main point:
  
  "The next point is crucial ..."

• Rephrasing the main point
  
  "The point I am making ..."

• Introducing an example:
  
  "Take the case of ..."

• Moving on to another main point:
  
  "I'd like to move on and look at .."

• A digression:
  
  "That reminds me of ..."

• Summing up main points:
  
  "To recapitulate ..."

How do I listen and write down what is on the slides?