Freely printed from: https://learn.nimja.com/techniques/vak
VAK stands for: Visual, Auditory and Kinesthetic.
These are the main senses we use to receive information consciously. Our other senses tend to work more on an unconscious level. This term is very relevant within hypnosis to better speak someone's own language. People tend to favor one over the others. Keep in mind that this can very per moment and that it doesn't mean a person is "only" functioning in that sense.
I see. - That looks right.
Common language: see, look, bright, clear, picture, foggy, view, clear, focused, dawn, reveal, illuminate, imagine, hazy, an eyeful, short sighted.
Maybe you can see yourself slowly enjoying this relaxation spreading through your body as you notice how your arm looks so much more relaxed.
Visual speakers tend to speak faster as visual memories are easier to process.
I hear ya. - That sounds right.
Common language: sound, resonate, listen, silence, deaf, squeak, hush, roar, melody, make music, harmonize, tune in/out, rings a bell, voiced.
As you listen to the sound of my voice, perhaps you can hear how your breathing slows down to a pleasant calm state.
Auditory speakers tend to speak at a moderate speed.
I feel ya. - That feels right.
Common language: grasp, feel, harden, feeling, concrete, scrape, solid, touch, get hold of, catch on, tap into, heated, pull, sharp, smooth.
Maybe you already noticed how your body becomes more relaxed while you feel my words taking effect in your body.
Kinesthetic speakers tend to speak slower, as they are feeling their own response while talking and this takes time.
While not perfect, most people unconsciously move their eyes when considering something. Even without using words this is a way to find their subconscious sense.
Again, keep in mind that it will be their primary mode at this time. It can change with emotions, circumstance, etc.
It's good to ask open questions that allow people to answer in various ways. Like "What weather do you like?" or "What do you really enjoy doing?".
A very simple and effective followup question is "What do you like about it?" - As it asks people to be specific about which part they like.
Q: So, what do you like to do?
I like to ski.
Q: What do you like about it?
V - Seeing the snow and sprays as I go.
A - The crunch of the snow and the wind as I go so fast.
K - The feeling of speed is so good.