Usually when the question is about critical thinking skills, we mean a form of thinking of higher level. Sometimes critical thinking is related to the scientific way of thinking. The thing is that this way of thinking is some sort of assistance in making important decisions and evaluating different facts. In order to improve critical thinking skills, one should work it out to be able to make a decision of more intelligent nature.
If you’re looking for a simple way to improve your critical thinking skills, all the tips provided below will assist you in developing your own critical thinking strategies.
First of all, determine the problem you are going to provide the solution for. Make sure you are not narrow-minded and you have an opportunity to be objective when solving this problem. You have to be aware of all the biases and be able to put them aside.
Next step is to outline the solution that may be effective for the problem. Don’t forget to brainstorm the other possible answers and explanations. The point is that critical thinking strategies include open-minded approach to all new ideas. Develop an outline for all the “+” and “–” for every solution.
Carefully study all the sources in order to gather information related to the problem. Don’t forget to include information that contradicts your viewpoint together with the facts that support it. The point is that you have to gather all information needed to make a well-considered unbiased decision. Gather your facts from more than one source in order to have a 100% perspective of the dilemma.
Now make an analysis for all the facts you have been digging for and analyze all the problem parts. Never give preference to assumptions – all the decisions should be made objectively and in accordance with current information.
Evaluate the information you have found and the way it refutes the hypothesis you have suggested. It is recommended to question every answer found in the process of studying. Make sure you’re working with the trustworthy sources and never forget to look at the biases of the authors providing you with the information.
Develop a logical and realistic conclusion based on all the facts. Question it in an analytical way and come to a decision whether this closing is reasonably substantiated.
Make certain all the facts are truthful and perfectly fit the general context. Never assume anything without forcible arguments. The thing is that you may assume that X is the cause for Y but there may be also some Z that serves as the cause for both – X and Y. Use evidence and statistics.
You can also additionally follow 6 critical thinking steps suggested by us.
