What is Critical Thinking?

Critical thinking is a disciplined process of actively evaluating, applying, analyzing, and synthesizing information gathered from observation, experience, or communication. It helps you make better decisions, solve problems, and separate fact from opinion.

Core skills

  • Observation: Notice details and sources.
  • Analysis: Break ideas into parts and see relationships.
  • Inference: Draw reasoned conclusions from evidence.
  • Evaluation: Assess credibility and relevance of information.
  • Explanation: Present findings clearly and concisely.

Short exercises (5–15 minutes)

Exercise 1 — Claim check (5 min)

Find one recent news headline. Ask: who says this? what's the evidence? what assumptions are being made? Could there be another interpretation?

Exercise 2 — Pro & Con split (10 min)

Pick a common argument (e.g., "remote work increases productivity"). List 3 quick reasons for and 3 against. Identify which reasons are evidence-based and which are opinions.

Exercise 3 — Mini debate (15 min)

With a partner, take opposite views on a small topic for 7 minutes each. After both speak, summarize the other's best point in one sentence.

Study tips

  • Keep notes short: write one-sentence summaries of what you read.
  • Teach someone: explaining improves retention and reveals gaps.
  • Practice often: short, frequent sessions beat one long cram.
  • Prefer primary sources: when possible, read the study, report, or original data.

FAQs

Q: Do I need special training?
A: No. Start with curiosity and these simple practices.

Q: Can this help at work?
A: Yes — clearer thinking improves decisions, planning, and communication.

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