Communication is an essential part of human existence. However, not all of us are born with great personal relationship skills. In fact, a lot of people are afraid of talking to others or in front of a crowd for several reasons including physical disabilities(残疾), lack of knowledge, and emotional hindrances(障碍). If you want to get over your poor conversation habits, here are some useful tips you should practice:
Talk about interesting general subjects. Topics that are too specific may not be appealing to everyone. Current issues or news items are perfect starters because you can be sure that other people are aware of them.
Do not be afraid of conversational taboos(禁忌). However, know your limitations. Topics such as religion and politics can be discussed without debating. Often, key issues, especially those that take sides, make the best conversations.
Discuss, do not argue. State facts and opinions politely, but do not force other people to accept what you believe in. At the same time, be open to their viewpoints. After all, the purpose of a conversation is to exchange views and information.
Listen. Like relationships, conversations should have a give-and-take pattern. Allow other people to speak their opinions without constant interruptions(打断). Pay attention and focus on every detail they say. An interest in another person’s point of view is absolutely essential.
Stay with the subject. Do not move from topic to topic. Try to explore an issue with reasonably and completely.
Say what you think. Do not be afraid to agree or disagree on a particular issue. A certain amount of honest disagreement establishes(建立)mutual (相互的) respect.
Do not panic when there is a pause. You do not have to rush in to fill every little pocket of silence. Pauses are a necessary part of every good conversation. They refresh (恢复) the communicators’ minds and provide an opportunity to collect one’s thoughts before taking part in the discussion again.

(1) Which of the following can be thought of as a poor conversation habit?

A. Listening and constantly breaking in to discuss.

B. Opening up an interesting general topic.

C. Telling other people your opinion when you disagree.

D. Discussing with others based on facts.

(2) We can infer that when communicating with other people, you should avoid ________.

A. honest disagreement

B. conversational taboos

C. changing others’ opinions

D. staying with the same topic

(3) Pauses are necessary for people in a conversation to ______.

A. establish mutual respect

B. explore an issue thoroughly

C. prepare for the next topic

D. avoid arguing with others

(4) By writing the passage, the author intends to tell us ______.

A. how to get rid of emotional hindrances

B. reasons for poor conversation

C. how to communicate with others

D. useful tips on conversation topics​