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Critical thinking is a really useful skill that can help you be a better problem-solver, decision-maker, and analyst. It is a way of thinking about particular things at a particular time. Critical thinking is the ability to analyze information and form a judgment effectively.
To think critically, you must be aware of your own biases and assumptions when encountering information and apply consistent standards when evaluating sources.

Man with hands on hips.

Watch the video below to learn about examples of oral communication you can find in the real world and how to apply those skills to reach your goals.

The Critical Thinking Umbrella

Gather + Assess Relevant Information
Identify Patterns
Question Assumptions
Draw Conclusions

Critical thinking in the 21st century includes the capacity to reason logically and rigorously. Effective critical thinkers exhibit four core sub-competencies: gather and assess relevant information, identify patterns, question assumptions, and draw well-reasoned conclusions. Gather + Assess Relevant Information: Individuals ground problem-solving in facts rather than assertions. Identify Patterns: Individuals make sense of data, recognize commonalities among seemingly unrelated situations, and frame novel problems in familiar terms. Question Assumptions: Individuals resist easy answers, probing more deeply and improving the problem-solving process. Draw Conclusions: Individuals use logic and reasoning to evaluate arguments, form judgments, and make recommendations.

Review the BIG PICTURE and be ready to prove your knowledge.

Definition

Critical thinking is the ability to think clearly and rationally, understanding the logical connection between ideas.

Examples

It includes analyzing arguments, identifying biases, problem-solving, decision-making, evaluating sources, creativity, and reflection.

Why We Need

Critical thinking is important for making judgments about sources of information and forming your own arguments. It emphasizes a rational, objective, and self-aware approach that can help you to identify credible sources and strengthen your conclusions.

Want to Practice Before You Prove Your Skill? Read each example and decide if it would be a good or bad example of this skill.

NEXT UP: Prove you know the skill!

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