There will always be situations we come across where we can not keep up with what is going on because of one reason or another. Even with the topic being boring or something you have no interest in, there are things to try and learn on how to pay attention.

The front row or somewhere near the front is a great place to start. Being up front puts you near people who want to be there and also makes the teacher more aware of your presence. The thought behind this is that you will pay attention since the teacher now knows that you are there.

Sit by someone who sparks an interest in you. Use them as a way to keep yourself attentive. Discuss class topics with them, ask questions of them or just give friendly looks and smiles.

Eye contact with the teacher is a great way to stay attentive. Follow the teacher around the room and up to the board with your eyes. Smile or nod when you have an understanding of a topic. Make a quizzical face or frown when you do not understand. This engages you in the class and also lets the teacher know that you are hearing what they are saying.

Raise your hand to ask questions or take part in a class discussion. To do either of these, you need to know what is going on in the class to ask appropriate questions or you need to know what is being talked about in the class discussion in order for you to participate.

Another way to keep yourself alert is to take notes. Follow closely to what the teacher is saying and write down everything. Even if you will not need this information, you will keep your hands and your head busy and this will also make the time go by a bit faster.

No matter how hard we try, there will always be situations where we just can not get into the material. There are a few things that can be tried to keep yourself alert and involved in the material.