Analytical or critical listening involves listening to evaluate the content of a message through analysis, critical thinking, and judgment. It requires actively participating and focusing on the speaker, connecting information, reflecting on information from the speaker's perspective, and being open-minded and self-motivated. Key strategies include giving full attention, rephrasing the message, watching non-verbal language, focusing on the speaker, recognizing facts versus opinions, understanding perspectives, and reserving judgment. Being close-minded, asking empty questions, and making assumptions should be avoided. Analytical listening benefits include reducing misunderstandings, interpreting data effectively, opening the mind, solving disagreements, and increasing knowledge.