To avoid small talk with the conductor on the bus, you can take the following steps: 1. **Focus on your phone or book**: You can take out your phone to browse the content or read a book while riding. This can give people the signal that you are focusing on other things and don't want to be disturbed. 2. **Wear headphones**: Even if you don't play music, wearing headphones can effectively prevent others from interrupting you. This is a common non-verbal signal that conveys that you don't want to talk. 3. **Keep your answers brief**: If the conductor takes the initiative to talk to you, you can respond with a short answer, such as "OK, thank you", and then continue doing your own thing. 4. **Choose a suitable time to get on the bus**: If possible, choose a relatively busy time to get on the bus. When there are many passengers, the conductor may not have time to chat with you. 5. **Make good use of body language**: Keep your body slightly tilted to one side and avoid looking directly at the other person, which can reduce the chance of conversation. Adopting these methods can help you avoid small talk with the conductor while riding.