Basically, I focus on the first circle or 1/1 beat circle, trying not miss the very first note.
Playing based on combo numbers and followpoint, like If I see 3 and 5 with some stacks, then I 'predict' there is a 2-note burst (3 & 4 notes). So, when comes on hard with sightread then I rely on my reflexes.

NM & HD - when seeing new combo, I don't focus on the color and I think like just 'next beat' or 'next pattern' and move on. tbh it is on HR and DT also but more focused on just 'notes' on HR & DT.

Mostly focused on these days - when maps have a lot of heavy sliders, I focus my aim on the slider head and the only general direction it's moving on, not slider shaped or something.