I find it near impossible to engage in small talk. My brain just does not have the ability to put together the more abstract sentences of small talk.

My brain does quite well with subjects that fit together like a jig saw puzzle. The facts fit into specific spaces. If someone is relating facts, I may need to ask them to repeat what they say so I can organize my thoughts so I can understand and fit the pieces together. Once I get the edges of the puzzle started, I can often follow the information much better.

It the talk is abstract or has too many descriptive terms, my brain gets lost.
If it is a conversation with random concepts/gossip/feelings, etc. I will struggle to put the pieces together and end up lost in space.

I often need to rehearse my first comment into the conversation before speaking up. It is like that corner piece that I can build off of.

It is tough and a reason many psychologists label people with PCS as schizoid, a term meaning: Of, relating to, or having a personality disorder marked by extreme shyness, flat affect, reclusiveness, discomfort with others, and an inability to form close relationships.

I think the schizoid characteristic is a defensive or protective mechanism.