example of cognitive skills in critical thinking

41+ Critical Thinking Examples (Definition + Practices)

Critical thinking is an essential skill in our information-overloaded world, where figuring out what is fact and fiction has become increasingly challenging.

But why is critical thinking essential? Put, critical thinking empowers us to make better decisions, challenge and validate our beliefs and assumptions, and understand and interact with the world more effectively and meaningfully.

Critical thinking is like using your brain's "superpowers" to make smart choices. Whether it's picking the right insurance, deciding what to do in a job, or discussing topics in school, thinking deeply helps a lot. In the next parts, we'll share real-life examples of when this superpower comes in handy and give you some fun exercises to practice it.

Critical Thinking Process Outline

Critical thinking means thinking clearly and fairly without letting personal feelings get in the way. It's like being a detective, trying to solve a mystery by using clues and thinking hard about them.

It isn't always easy to think critically, as it can take a pretty smart person to see some of the questions that aren't being answered in a certain situation. But, we can train our brains to think more like puzzle solvers, which can help develop our critical thinking skills.

Here's what it looks like step by step:

Spotting the Problem: It's like discovering a puzzle to solve. You see that there's something you need to figure out or decide.

Collecting Clues: Now, you need to gather information. Maybe you read about it, watch a video, talk to people, or do some research. It's like getting all the pieces to solve your puzzle.

Breaking It Down: This is where you look at all your clues and try to see how they fit together. You're asking questions like: Why did this happen? What could happen next?

Checking Your Clues: You want to make sure your information is good. This means seeing if what you found out is true and if you can trust where it came from.

Making a Guess: After looking at all your clues, you think about what they mean and come up with an answer. This answer is like your best guess based on what you know.

Explaining Your Thoughts: Now, you tell others how you solved the puzzle. You explain how you thought about it and how you answered. 

Checking Your Work: This is like looking back and seeing if you missed anything. Did you make any mistakes? Did you let any personal feelings get in the way? This step helps make sure your thinking is clear and fair.

And remember, you might sometimes need to go back and redo some steps if you discover something new. If you realize you missed an important clue, you might have to go back and collect more information.

Critical Thinking Methods

Just like doing push-ups or running helps our bodies get stronger, there are special exercises that help our brains think better. These brain workouts push us to think harder, look at things closely, and ask many questions.

It's not always about finding the "right" answer. Instead, it's about the journey of thinking and asking "why" or "how." Doing these exercises often helps us become better thinkers and makes us curious to know more about the world.

Now, let's look at some brain workouts to help us think better:

1. "What If" Scenarios

Imagine crazy things happening, like, "What if there was no internet for a month? What would we do?" These games help us think of new and different ideas.

Pick a hot topic. Argue one side of it and then try arguing the opposite. This makes us see different viewpoints and think deeply about a topic.

3. Analyze Visual Data

Check out charts or pictures with lots of numbers and info but no explanations. What story are they telling? This helps us get better at understanding information just by looking at it.

4. Mind Mapping

Write an idea in the center and then draw lines to related ideas. It's like making a map of your thoughts. This helps us see how everything is connected.

There's lots of mind-mapping software , but it's also nice to do this by hand.

5. Weekly Diary

Every week, write about what happened, the choices you made, and what you learned. Writing helps us think about our actions and how we can do better.

6. Evaluating Information Sources

Collect stories or articles about one topic from newspapers or blogs. Which ones are trustworthy? Which ones might be a little biased? This teaches us to be smart about where we get our info.

There are many resources to help you determine if information sources are factual or not.

7. Socratic Questioning

This way of thinking is called the Socrates Method, named after an old-time thinker from Greece. It's about asking lots of questions to understand a topic. You can do this by yourself or chat with a friend.

Start with a Big Question:

"What does 'success' mean?"

Dive Deeper with More Questions:

"Why do you think of success that way?" "Do TV shows, friends, or family make you think that?" "Does everyone think about success the same way?"

"Can someone be a winner even if they aren't rich or famous?" "Can someone feel like they didn't succeed, even if everyone else thinks they did?"

Look for Real-life Examples:

"Who is someone you think is successful? Why?" "Was there a time you felt like a winner? What happened?"

Think About Other People's Views:

"How might a person from another country think about success?" "Does the idea of success change as we grow up or as our life changes?"

Think About What It Means:

"How does your idea of success shape what you want in life?" "Are there problems with only wanting to be rich or famous?"

Look Back and Think:

"After talking about this, did your idea of success change? How?" "Did you learn something new about what success means?"

8. Six Thinking Hats 

Edward de Bono came up with a cool way to solve problems by thinking in six different ways, like wearing different colored hats. You can do this independently, but it might be more effective in a group so everyone can have a different hat color. Each color has its way of thinking:

White Hat (Facts): Just the facts! Ask, "What do we know? What do we need to find out?"

Red Hat (Feelings): Talk about feelings. Ask, "How do I feel about this?"

Black Hat (Careful Thinking): Be cautious. Ask, "What could go wrong?"

Yellow Hat (Positive Thinking): Look on the bright side. Ask, "What's good about this?"

Green Hat (Creative Thinking): Think of new ideas. Ask, "What's another way to look at this?"

Blue Hat (Planning): Organize the talk. Ask, "What should we do next?"

When using this method with a group:

• Explain all the hats.
• Decide which hat to wear first.
• Make sure everyone switches hats at the same time.
• Finish with the Blue Hat to plan the next steps.

9. SWOT Analysis

SWOT Analysis is like a game plan for businesses to know where they stand and where they should go. "SWOT" stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

There are a lot of SWOT templates out there for how to do this visually, but you can also think it through. It doesn't just apply to businesses but can be a good way to decide if a project you're working on is working.

Strengths: What's working well? Ask, "What are we good at?"

Weaknesses: Where can we do better? Ask, "Where can we improve?"

Opportunities: What good things might come our way? Ask, "What chances can we grab?"

Threats: What challenges might we face? Ask, "What might make things tough for us?"

Steps to do a SWOT Analysis:

• Goal: Decide what you want to find out.
• Research: Learn about your business and the world around it.
• Brainstorm: Get a group and think together. Talk about strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
• Pick the Most Important Points: Some things might be more urgent or important than others.
• Make a Plan: Decide what to do based on your SWOT list.
• Check Again Later: Things change, so look at your SWOT again after a while to update it.

Now that you have a few tools for thinking critically, let’s get into some specific examples.

Everyday Examples

Life is a series of decisions. From the moment we wake up, we're faced with choices – some trivial, like choosing a breakfast cereal, and some more significant, like buying a home or confronting an ethical dilemma at work. While it might seem that these decisions are disparate, they all benefit from the application of critical thinking.

10. Deciding to buy something

Imagine you want a new phone. Don't just buy it because the ad looks cool. Think about what you need in a phone. Look up different phones and see what people say about them. Choose the one that's the best deal for what you want.

11. Deciding what is true

There's a lot of news everywhere. Don't believe everything right away. Think about why someone might be telling you this. Check if what you're reading or watching is true. Make up your mind after you've looked into it.

12. Deciding when you’re wrong

Sometimes, friends can have disagreements. Don't just get mad right away. Try to see where they're coming from. Talk about what's going on. Find a way to fix the problem that's fair for everyone.

13. Deciding what to eat

There's always a new diet or exercise that's popular. Don't just follow it because it's trendy. Find out if it's good for you. Ask someone who knows, like a doctor. Make choices that make you feel good and stay healthy.

14. Deciding what to do today

Everyone is busy with school, chores, and hobbies. Make a list of things you need to do. Decide which ones are most important. Plan your day so you can get things done and still have fun.

15. Making Tough Choices

Sometimes, it's hard to know what's right. Think about how each choice will affect you and others. Talk to people you trust about it. Choose what feels right in your heart and is fair to others.

16. Planning for the Future

Big decisions, like where to go to school, can be tricky. Think about what you want in the future. Look at the good and bad of each choice. Talk to people who know about it. Pick what feels best for your dreams and goals.

Job Examples

17. solving problems.

Workers brainstorm ways to fix a machine quickly without making things worse when a machine breaks at a factory.

18. Decision Making

A store manager decides which products to order more of based on what's selling best.

19. Setting Goals

A team leader helps their team decide what tasks are most important to finish this month and which can wait.

20. Evaluating Ideas

At a team meeting, everyone shares ideas for a new project. The group discusses each idea's pros and cons before picking one.

21. Handling Conflict

Two workers disagree on how to do a job. Instead of arguing, they talk calmly, listen to each other, and find a solution they both like.

22. Improving Processes

A cashier thinks of a faster way to ring up items so customers don't have to wait as long.

23. Asking Questions

Before starting a big task, an employee asks for clear instructions and checks if they have the necessary tools.

24. Checking Facts

Before presenting a report, someone double-checks all their information to make sure there are no mistakes.

25. Planning for the Future

A business owner thinks about what might happen in the next few years, like new competitors or changes in what customers want, and makes plans based on those thoughts.

26. Understanding Perspectives

A team is designing a new toy. They think about what kids and parents would both like instead of just what they think is fun.

School Examples

27. researching a topic.

For a history project, a student looks up different sources to understand an event from multiple viewpoints.

28. Debating an Issue

In a class discussion, students pick sides on a topic, like school uniforms, and share reasons to support their views.

29. Evaluating Sources

While writing an essay, a student checks if the information from a website is trustworthy or might be biased.

30. Problem Solving in Math

When stuck on a tricky math problem, a student tries different methods to find the answer instead of giving up.

31. Analyzing Literature

In English class, students discuss why a character in a book made certain choices and what those decisions reveal about them.

32. Testing a Hypothesis

For a science experiment, students guess what will happen and then conduct tests to see if they're right or wrong.

33. Giving Peer Feedback

After reading a classmate's essay, a student offers suggestions for improving it.

34. Questioning Assumptions

In a geography lesson, students consider why certain countries are called "developed" and what that label means.

35. Designing a Study

For a psychology project, students plan an experiment to understand how people's memories work and think of ways to ensure accurate results.

36. Interpreting Data

In a science class, students look at charts and graphs from a study, then discuss what the information tells them and if there are any patterns.

Critical Thinking Puzzles

Not all scenarios will have a single correct answer that can be figured out by thinking critically. Sometimes we have to think critically about ethical choices or moral behaviors. 

Here are some mind games and scenarios you can solve using critical thinking. You can see the solution(s) at the end of the post.

37. The Farmer, Fox, Chicken, and Grain Problem

A farmer is at a riverbank with a fox, a chicken, and a grain bag. He needs to get all three items across the river. However, his boat can only carry himself and one of the three items at a time. 

Here's the challenge:

• If the fox is left alone with the chicken, the fox will eat the chicken.
• If the chicken is left alone with the grain, the chicken will eat the grain.

How can the farmer get all three items across the river without any item being eaten? 

38. The Rope, Jar, and Pebbles Problem

You are in a room with two long ropes hanging from the ceiling. Each rope is just out of arm's reach from the other, so you can't hold onto one rope and reach the other simultaneously. 

Your task is to tie the two rope ends together, but you can't move the position where they hang from the ceiling.

You are given a jar full of pebbles. How do you complete the task?

39. The Two Guards Problem

Imagine there are two doors. One door leads to certain doom, and the other leads to freedom. You don't know which is which.

In front of each door stands a guard. One guard always tells the truth. The other guard always lies. You don't know which guard is which.

You can ask only one question to one of the guards. What question should you ask to find the door that leads to freedom?

40. The Hourglass Problem

You have two hourglasses. One measures 7 minutes when turned over, and the other measures 4 minutes. Using just these hourglasses, how can you time exactly 9 minutes?

41. The Lifeboat Dilemma

Imagine you're on a ship that's sinking. You get on a lifeboat, but it's already too full and might flip over. 

Nearby in the water, five people are struggling: a scientist close to finding a cure for a sickness, an old couple who've been together for a long time, a mom with three kids waiting at home, and a tired teenager who helped save others but is now in danger. 

You can only save one person without making the boat flip. Who would you choose?

42. The Tech Dilemma

You work at a tech company and help make a computer program to help small businesses. You're almost ready to share it with everyone, but you find out there might be a small chance it has a problem that could show users' private info. 

If you decide to fix it, you must wait two more months before sharing it. But your bosses want you to share it now. What would you do?

43. The History Mystery

Dr. Amelia is a history expert. She's studying where a group of people traveled long ago. She reads old letters and documents to learn about it. But she finds some letters that tell a different story than what most people believe. 

If she says this new story is true, it could change what people learn in school and what they think about history. What should she do?

The Role of Bias in Critical Thinking

Have you ever decided you don’t like someone before you even know them? Or maybe someone shared an idea with you that you immediately loved without even knowing all the details. 

This experience is called bias, which occurs when you like or dislike something or someone without a good reason or knowing why. It can also take shape in certain reactions to situations, like a habit or instinct. 

Bias comes from our own experiences, what friends or family tell us, or even things we are born believing. Sometimes, bias can help us stay safe, but other times it stops us from seeing the truth.

Not all bias is bad. Bias can be a mechanism for assessing our potential safety in a new situation. If we are biased to think that anything long, thin, and curled up is a snake, we might assume the rope is something to be afraid of before we know it is just a rope.

While bias might serve us in some situations (like jumping out of the way of an actual snake before we have time to process that we need to be jumping out of the way), it often harms our ability to think critically.

How Bias Gets in the Way of Good Thinking

Selective Perception: We only notice things that match our ideas and ignore the rest. 

It's like only picking red candies from a mixed bowl because you think they taste the best, but they taste the same as every other candy in the bowl. It could also be when we see all the signs that our partner is cheating on us but choose to ignore them because we are happy the way we are (or at least, we think we are).

Agreeing with Yourself: This is called “ confirmation bias ” when we only listen to ideas that match our own and seek, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms what we already think we know or believe. 

An example is when someone wants to know if it is safe to vaccinate their children but already believes that vaccines are not safe, so they only look for information supporting the idea that vaccines are bad.

Thinking We Know It All: Similar to confirmation bias, this is called “overconfidence bias.” Sometimes we think our ideas are the best and don't listen to others. This can stop us from learning.

Have you ever met someone who you consider a “know it”? Probably, they have a lot of overconfidence bias because while they may know many things accurately, they can’t know everything. Still, if they act like they do, they show overconfidence bias.

There's a weird kind of bias similar to this called the Dunning Kruger Effect, and that is when someone is bad at what they do, but they believe and act like they are the best .

Following the Crowd: This is formally called “groupthink”. It's hard to speak up with a different idea if everyone agrees. But this can lead to mistakes.

An example of this we’ve all likely seen is the cool clique in primary school. There is usually one person that is the head of the group, the “coolest kid in school”, and everyone listens to them and does what they want, even if they don’t think it’s a good idea.

How to Overcome Biases

Here are a few ways to learn to think better, free from our biases (or at least aware of them!).

Know Your Biases: Realize that everyone has biases. If we know about them, we can think better.

Listen to Different People: Talking to different kinds of people can give us new ideas.

Ask Why: Always ask yourself why you believe something. Is it true, or is it just a bias?

Understand Others: Try to think about how others feel. It helps you see things in new ways.

Keep Learning: Always be curious and open to new information.

In today's world, everything changes fast, and there's so much information everywhere. This makes critical thinking super important. It helps us distinguish between what's real and what's made up. It also helps us make good choices. But thinking this way can be tough sometimes because of biases. These are like sneaky thoughts that can trick us. The good news is we can learn to see them and think better.

There are cool tools and ways we've talked about, like the "Socratic Questioning" method and the "Six Thinking Hats." These tools help us get better at thinking. These thinking skills can also help us in school, work, and everyday life.

We’ve also looked at specific scenarios where critical thinking would be helpful, such as deciding what diet to follow and checking facts.

Thinking isn't just a skill—it's a special talent we improve over time. Working on it lets us see things more clearly and understand the world better. So, keep practicing and asking questions! It'll make you a smarter thinker and help you see the world differently.

Critical Thinking Puzzles (Solutions)

The farmer, fox, chicken, and grain problem.

• The farmer first takes the chicken across the river and leaves it on the other side.
• He returns to the original side and takes the fox across the river.
• After leaving the fox on the other side, he returns the chicken to the starting side.
• He leaves the chicken on the starting side and takes the grain bag across the river.
• He leaves the grain with the fox on the other side and returns to get the chicken.
• The farmer takes the chicken across, and now all three items -- the fox, the chicken, and the grain -- are safely on the other side of the river.

The Rope, Jar, and Pebbles Problem

• Take one rope and tie the jar of pebbles to its end.
• Swing the rope with the jar in a pendulum motion.
• While the rope is swinging, grab the other rope and wait.
• As the swinging rope comes back within reach due to its pendulum motion, grab it.
• With both ropes within reach, untie the jar and tie the rope ends together.

The Two Guards Problem

The question is, "What would the other guard say is the door to doom?" Then choose the opposite door.

The Hourglass Problem

• Start both hourglasses. 
• When the 4-minute hourglass runs out, turn it over.
• When the 7-minute hourglass runs out, the 4-minute hourglass will have been running for 3 minutes. Turn the 7-minute hourglass over. 
• When the 4-minute hourglass runs out for the second time (a total of 8 minutes have passed), the 7-minute hourglass will run for 1 minute. Turn the 7-minute hourglass again for 1 minute to empty the hourglass (a total of 9 minutes passed).

The Boat and Weights Problem

Take the cat over first and leave it on the other side. Then, return and take the fish across next. When you get there, take the cat back with you. Leave the cat on the starting side and take the cat food across. Lastly, return to get the cat and bring it to the other side.

The Lifeboat Dilemma

There isn’t one correct answer to this problem. Here are some elements to consider:

• Moral Principles: What values guide your decision? Is it the potential greater good for humanity (the scientist)? What is the value of long-standing love and commitment (the elderly couple)? What is the future of young children who depend on their mothers? Or the selfless bravery of the teenager?
• Future Implications: Consider the future consequences of each choice. Saving the scientist might benefit millions in the future, but what moral message does it send about the value of individual lives?
• Emotional vs. Logical Thinking: While it's essential to engage empathy, it's also crucial not to let emotions cloud judgment entirely. For instance, while the teenager's bravery is commendable, does it make him more deserving of a spot on the boat than the others?
• Acknowledging Uncertainty: The scientist claims to be close to a significant breakthrough, but there's no certainty. How does this uncertainty factor into your decision?
• Personal Bias: Recognize and challenge any personal biases, such as biases towards age, profession, or familial status.

The Tech Dilemma

Again, there isn’t one correct answer to this problem. Here are some elements to consider:

• Evaluate the Risk: How severe is the potential vulnerability? Can it be easily exploited, or would it require significant expertise? Even if the circumstances are rare, what would be the consequences if the vulnerability were exploited?
• Stakeholder Considerations: Different stakeholders will have different priorities. Upper management might prioritize financial projections, the marketing team might be concerned about the product's reputation, and customers might prioritize the security of their data. How do you balance these competing interests?
• Short-Term vs. Long-Term Implications: While launching on time could meet immediate financial goals, consider the potential long-term damage to the company's reputation if the vulnerability is exploited. Would the short-term gains be worth the potential long-term costs?
• Ethical Implications : Beyond the financial and reputational aspects, there's an ethical dimension to consider. Is it right to release a product with a known vulnerability, even if the chances of it being exploited are low?
• Seek External Input: Consulting with cybersecurity experts outside your company might be beneficial. They could provide a more objective risk assessment and potential mitigation strategies.
• Communication: How will you communicate the decision, whatever it may be, both internally to your team and upper management and externally to your customers and potential users?

The History Mystery

Dr. Amelia should take the following steps:

• Verify the Letters: Before making any claims, she should check if the letters are actual and not fake. She can do this by seeing when and where they were written and if they match with other things from that time.
• Get a Second Opinion: It's always good to have someone else look at what you've found. Dr. Amelia could show the letters to other history experts and see their thoughts.
• Research More: Maybe there are more documents or letters out there that support this new story. Dr. Amelia should keep looking to see if she can find more evidence.
• Share the Findings: If Dr. Amelia believes the letters are true after all her checks, she should tell others. This can be through books, talks, or articles.
• Stay Open to Feedback: Some people might agree with Dr. Amelia, and others might not. She should listen to everyone and be ready to learn more or change her mind if new information arises.

Ultimately, Dr. Amelia's job is to find out the truth about history and share it. It's okay if this new truth differs from what people used to believe. History is about learning from the past, no matter the story.

Related posts:

• Experimenter Bias (Definition + Examples)
• Hasty Generalization Fallacy (31 Examples + Similar Names)
• Ad Hoc Fallacy (29 Examples + Other Names)
• Confirmation Bias (Examples + Definition)
• Equivocation Fallacy (26 Examples + Description)

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• What Is Critical Thinking? | Definition & Examples

What Is Critical Thinking? | Definition & Examples

Published on May 30, 2022 by Eoghan Ryan . Revised on May 31, 2023.

Critical thinking is the ability to effectively analyze information and form a judgment .

To think critically, you must be aware of your own biases and assumptions when encountering information, and apply consistent standards when evaluating sources .

Critical thinking skills help you to:

• Identify credible sources
• Evaluate and respond to arguments
• Assess alternative viewpoints
• Test hypotheses against relevant criteria

Table of contents

Why is critical thinking important, critical thinking examples, how to think critically, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about critical thinking.

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.

Critical thinking is important in all disciplines and throughout all stages of the research process . The types of evidence used in the sciences and in the humanities may differ, but critical thinking skills are relevant to both.

In academic writing , critical thinking can help you to determine whether a source:

• Is free from research bias
• Provides evidence to support its research findings
• Considers alternative viewpoints

Outside of academia, critical thinking goes hand in hand with information literacy to help you form opinions rationally and engage independently and critically with popular media.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Critical thinking can help you to identify reliable sources of information that you can cite in your research paper . It can also guide your own research methods and inform your own arguments.

Outside of academia, critical thinking can help you to be aware of both your own and others’ biases and assumptions.

Academic examples

However, when you compare the findings of the study with other current research, you determine that the results seem improbable. You analyze the paper again, consulting the sources it cites.

You notice that the research was funded by the pharmaceutical company that created the treatment. Because of this, you view its results skeptically and determine that more independent research is necessary to confirm or refute them. Example: Poor critical thinking in an academic context You’re researching a paper on the impact wireless technology has had on developing countries that previously did not have large-scale communications infrastructure. You read an article that seems to confirm your hypothesis: the impact is mainly positive. Rather than evaluating the research methodology, you accept the findings uncritically.

Nonacademic examples

However, you decide to compare this review article with consumer reviews on a different site. You find that these reviews are not as positive. Some customers have had problems installing the alarm, and some have noted that it activates for no apparent reason.

You revisit the original review article. You notice that the words “sponsored content” appear in small print under the article title. Based on this, you conclude that the review is advertising and is therefore not an unbiased source. Example: Poor critical thinking in a nonacademic context You support a candidate in an upcoming election. You visit an online news site affiliated with their political party and read an article that criticizes their opponent. The article claims that the opponent is inexperienced in politics. You accept this without evidence, because it fits your preconceptions about the opponent.

There is no single way to think critically. How you engage with information will depend on the type of source you’re using and the information you need.

However, you can engage with sources in a systematic and critical way by asking certain questions when you encounter information. Like the CRAAP test , these questions focus on the currency , relevance , authority , accuracy , and purpose of a source of information.

When encountering information, ask:

• Who is the author? Are they an expert in their field?
• What do they say? Is their argument clear? Can you summarize it?
• When did they say this? Is the source current?
• Where is the information published? Is it an academic article? Is it peer-reviewed ?
• Why did the author publish it? What is their motivation?
• How do they make their argument? Is it backed up by evidence? Does it rely on opinion, speculation, or appeals to emotion ? Do they address alternative arguments?

Critical thinking also involves being aware of your own biases, not only those of others. When you make an argument or draw your own conclusions, you can ask similar questions about your own writing:

• Am I only considering evidence that supports my preconceptions?
• Is my argument expressed clearly and backed up with credible sources?
• Would I be convinced by this argument coming from someone else?

If you want to know more about ChatGPT, AI tools , citation , and plagiarism , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

• ChatGPT vs human editor
• ChatGPT citations
• Is ChatGPT trustworthy?
• Using ChatGPT for your studies
• What is ChatGPT?
• Chicago style
• Paraphrasing

 Plagiarism

• Types of plagiarism
• Self-plagiarism
• Avoiding plagiarism
• Academic integrity
• Consequences of plagiarism
• Common knowledge

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Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.

Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.

Critical thinking skills include the ability to:

You can assess information and arguments critically by asking certain questions about the source. You can use the CRAAP test , focusing on the currency , relevance , authority , accuracy , and purpose of a source of information.

Ask questions such as:

• Who is the author? Are they an expert?
• How do they make their argument? Is it backed up by evidence?

A credible source should pass the CRAAP test  and follow these guidelines:

• The information should be up to date and current.
• The author and publication should be a trusted authority on the subject you are researching.
• The sources the author cited should be easy to find, clear, and unbiased.
• For a web source, the URL and layout should signify that it is trustworthy.

Information literacy refers to a broad range of skills, including the ability to find, evaluate, and use sources of information effectively.

Being information literate means that you:

• Know how to find credible sources
• Use relevant sources to inform your research
• Understand what constitutes plagiarism
• Know how to cite your sources correctly

Confirmation bias is the tendency to search, interpret, and recall information in a way that aligns with our pre-existing values, opinions, or beliefs. It refers to the ability to recollect information best when it amplifies what we already believe. Relatedly, we tend to forget information that contradicts our opinions.

Although selective recall is a component of confirmation bias, it should not be confused with recall bias.

On the other hand, recall bias refers to the differences in the ability between study participants to recall past events when self-reporting is used. This difference in accuracy or completeness of recollection is not related to beliefs or opinions. Rather, recall bias relates to other factors, such as the length of the recall period, age, and the characteristics of the disease under investigation.

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How to build your critical thinking skills in 7 steps (with examples)

Critical thinking is, well, critical. By developing critical thinking skills, you improve your ability to analyze information and come to the best decision possible. In this article, we cover the basics of critical thinking, as well as the seven steps you can use to implement the full critical thinking process.

Critical thinking comes from asking the right questions to come to the best conclusion possible. Strong critical thinkers analyze information from a variety of viewpoints in order to identify the best course of action.

Don’t worry if you don’t think you have strong critical thinking skills. In this article, we’ll help you build a foundation for critical thinking so you can absorb, analyze, and make informed decisions. 

What is critical thinking? 

Critical thinking is the ability to collect and analyze information to come to a conclusion. Being able to think critically is important in virtually every industry and applicable across a wide range of positions. That’s because critical thinking isn’t subject-specific—rather, it’s your ability to parse through information, data, statistics, and other details in order to identify a satisfactory solution. 

Definitions of critical thinking

Various scholars have provided definitions of critical thinking, each emphasizing different aspects of this complex cognitive process:

Michael Scriven , an American philosopher, defines critical thinking as "the intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information gathered from, or generated by, observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication as a guide to belief and action."

Robert Ennis , professor emeritus at the University of Illinois, describes critical thinking as "reasonable, reflective thinking focused on deciding what to believe or do."

Diane Halpern , a cognitive psychologist and former president of the American Psychological Association, defines it as "the use of cognitive skills or strategies that increase the probability of a desirable outcome."

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8 essential critical thinking skills to develop

Critical thinking is essential for success in everyday life, higher education, and professional settings. The handbook "Foundation for Critical Thinking" defines it as a process of conceptualization, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of information.

In no particular order, here are eight key critical thinking abilities that can help you excel in any situation:

1. Analytical thinking

Analytical thinking involves evaluating data from multiple sources in order to come to the best conclusions. Analytical thinking allows people to reject cognitive biases and strive to gather and analyze intricate subject matter while solving complex problems. Analytical thinkers who thrive at critical thinking can:

Identify patterns and trends in the data

Break down complex issues into manageable components

Recognize cause-and-effect relationships

Evaluate the strength of arguments and evidence

Example: A data analyst breaks down complex sales figures to identify trends and patterns that inform the company's marketing strategy.

2. Open-mindedness

Open-mindedness is the willingness to consider new ideas, arguments, and information without prejudice. This critical thinking skill helps you analyze and process information to come to an unbiased conclusion. Part of the critical thinking process is letting your personal biases go, taking information at face value and coming to a conclusion based on multiple points of view .

Open-minded critical thinkers demonstrate:

Willingness to consider alternative viewpoints

Ability to suspend judgment until sufficient evidence is gathered

Receptiveness to constructive criticism and feedback

Flexibility in updating beliefs based on new information

Example: During a product development meeting, a team leader actively considers unconventional ideas from junior members, leading to an innovative solution.

3. Problem-solving

Effective problem solving is a cornerstone of critical thinking. It requires the ability to identify issues, generate possible solutions, evaluate alternatives, and implement the best course of action. This critical thinking skill is particularly valuable in fields like project management and entrepreneurship.

Key aspects of problem-solving include:

Clearly defining the problem

Gathering relevant information

Brainstorming potential solutions

Evaluating the pros and cons of each option

Implementing and monitoring the chosen solution

Reflecting on the outcome and adjusting as necessary

Example: A high school principal uses problem-solving skills to address declining student engagement by surveying learners, consulting with higher education experts, and implementing a new curriculum that balances academic rigor with practical, real-world applications.

4. Reasoned judgment

Reasoned judgment is a key component of higher order thinking that involves making thoughtful decisions based on logical analysis of evidence and thorough consideration of alternatives. This critical thinking skill is important in both academic and professional settings. Key aspects reasoned judgment include:

Objectively gathering and analyzing information

Evaluating the credibility and relevance of evidence

Considering multiple perspectives before drawing conclusions

Making decisions based on logical inference and sound reasoning

Example: A high school science teacher uses reasoned judgment to design an experiment, carefully observing and analyzing results before drawing conclusions about the hypothesis.

5. Reflective thinking

Reflective thinking is the process of analyzing one's own thought processes, actions, and outcomes to gain deeper understanding and improve future performance. Good critical thinking requires analyzing and synthesizing information to form a coherent understanding of a problem. It's an essential critical thinking skill for continuous learning and improvement.

Key aspects of reflective thinking include:

Critically examining one's own assumptions and cognitive biases

Considering diverse viewpoints and perspectives

Synthesizing information from various experiences and sources

Applying insights to improve future decision-making and actions

Continuously evaluating and adjusting one's thinking processes

Example: A community organizer reflects on the outcomes of a recent public event, considering what worked well and what could be improved for future initiatives.

6. Communication

Strong communication skills help critical thinkers articulate ideas clearly and persuasively. Communication in the workplace is crucial for effective teamwork, leadership, and knowledge dissemination. Key aspects of communication in critical thinking include:

Clearly expressing complex ideas

Active listening and comprehension

Adapting communication styles to different audiences

Constructing and delivering persuasive arguments

Example: A manager effectively explains a new company policy to her team, addressing their concerns and ensuring everyone understands its implications.

7. Research

Critical thinkers with strong research skills gather, evaluate, and synthesize information from various sources of information. This is particularly important in academic settings and in professional fields that require continuous learning. Effective research involves:

Identifying reliable and relevant sources of information

Evaluating the credibility and bias of sources

Synthesizing information from multiple sources

Recognizing gaps in existing knowledge

Example: A journalist verifies information from multiple credible sources before publishing an article on a controversial topic.

8. Decision-making

Effective decision making is the culmination of various critical thinking skills that allow an individual to draw logical conclusions and generalizations. It involves weighing options, considering consequences, and choosing the best course of action. Key aspects of decision-making include:

Defining clear criteria for evaluation

Gathering and analyzing relevant information

Considering short-term and long-term consequences

Managing uncertainty and risk

Balancing logic and intuition

Example: A homeowner weighs the costs, benefits, and long-term implications before deciding to invest in solar panels for their house.

How to develop critical thinking skills in 7 steps

Critical thinking is a skill that you can build by following these seven steps. The seven steps to critical thinking help you ensure you’re approaching a problem from the right angle, considering every alternative, and coming to an unbiased conclusion.

First things first: When to use the 7 step critical thinking process

There’s a lot that goes into the full critical thinking process, and not every decision needs to be this thought out. Sometimes, it’s enough to put aside bias and approach a process logically. In other, more complex cases, the best way to identify the ideal outcome is to go through the entire critical thinking process. 

The seven-step critical thinking process is useful for complex decisions in areas you are less familiar with. Alternatively, the seven critical thinking steps can help you look at a problem you’re familiar with from a different angle, without any bias. 

If you need to make a less complex decision, consider another problem solving strategy instead. Decision matrices are a great way to identify the best option between different choices. Check out our article on 7 steps to creating a decision matrix .

1. Identify the problem or question

Before you put those critical thinking skills to work, you first need to identify the problem you’re solving. This step includes taking a look at the problem from a few different perspectives and asking questions like: 

What’s happening? 

Why is this happening? 

What assumptions am I making? 

At first glance, how do I think we can solve this problem? 

A big part of developing your critical thinking skills is learning how to come to unbiased conclusions. In order to do that, you first need to acknowledge the biases that you currently have. Does someone on your team think they know the answer? Are you making assumptions that aren’t necessarily true? Identifying these details helps you later on in the process. 

2. Gather relevant information

At this point, you likely have a general idea of the problem—but in order to come up with the best solution, you need to dig deeper. 

During the research process, collect information relating to the problem, including data, statistics, historical project information, team input, and more. Make sure you gather information from a variety of sources, especially if those sources go against your personal ideas about what the problem is or how to solve it.

Gathering varied information is essential for your ability to apply the critical thinking process. If you don’t get enough information, your ability to make a final decision will be skewed. Remember that critical thinking is about helping you identify the objective best conclusion. You aren’t going with your gut—you’re doing research to find the best option

3. Analyze and evaluate data

Just as it’s important to gather a variety of information, it is also important to determine how relevant the different information sources are. After all, just because there is data doesn’t mean it’s relevant. 

Once you’ve gathered all of the information, sift through the noise and identify what information is relevant and what information isn’t. Synthesizing all of this information and establishing significance helps you weigh different data sources and come to the best conclusion later on in the critical thinking process. 

To determine data relevance, ask yourself:

How reliable is this information? 

How significant is this information? 

Is this information outdated? Is it specialized in a specific field? 

4. Consider alternative points of view

One of the most useful parts of the critical thinking process is coming to a decision without bias. In order to do so, you need to take a step back from the process and challenge the assumptions you’re making. 

We all have bias—and that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Unconscious biases (also known as cognitive biases) often serve as mental shortcuts to simplify problem solving and aid decision making. But even when biases aren’t inherently bad, you must be aware of your biases in order to put them aside when necessary. 

Before coming to a solution, ask yourself:

Am I making any assumptions about this information? 

Are there additional variables I haven’t considered? 

Have I evaluated the information from every perspective? 

Are there any viewpoints I missed?

5. Draw logical conclusions

Finally, you’re ready to come to a conclusion. To identify the best solution, draw connections between causes and effects. Use the facts you’ve gathered to evaluate the most objective conclusion. 

Keep in mind that there may be more than one solution. Often, the problems you’re facing are complex and intricate. The critical thinking process doesn’t necessarily lead to a cut-and-dry solution—instead, the process helps you understand the different variables at play so you can make an informed decision. 

6. Develop and communication solutions

Communication is a key skill for critical thinkers. It isn’t enough to think for yourself—you also need to share your conclusion with other project stakeholders. If there are multiple solutions, present them all. There may be a case where you implement one solution, then test to see if it works before implementing another solution. 

This process of communicating and sharing ideas is key in promoting critical thinking abilities within a team or organization. By encouraging open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving, you create an environment that fosters the development of critical thinking skills in others.

7. Reflect and learn from the process

The seven-step critical thinking process yields a result—and you then need to put that solution into place. After you’ve implemented your decision, evaluate whether or not it was effective. Did it solve the initial problem? What lessons—whether positive or negative—can you learn from this experience to improve your critical thinking for next time? 

By engaging in this metacognitive reflective thinking process, you're essentially teaching critical thinking skills to yourself, refining your methodology with each iteration. This reflective practice is fundamental in developing a more robust and adaptable approach to problem-solving.

Depending on how your team shares information, consider documenting lessons learned in a central source of truth. That way, team members that are making similar or related decisions in the future can understand why you made the decision you made and what the outcome was.

Critical thinking examples in the workplace

Imagine you work in user experience design (UX). Your team is focused on pricing and packaging and ensuring customers have a clear understanding of the different services your company offers. Here’s how to apply the critical thinking process in the workplace in seven steps: 

Step 1: Start by identifying the problem

Your current pricing page isn’t performing as well as you want. You’ve heard from customers that your services aren’t clear, and that the page doesn’t answer the questions they have. This page is really important for your company, since it’s where your customers sign up for your service. You and your team have a few theories about why your current page isn’t performing well, but you decide to apply the critical thinking process to ensure you come to the best decision for the page. 

Gather information about how the problem started

Part of identifying the problem includes understanding how the problem started. The pricing and packaging page is important—so when your team initially designed the page, they certainly put a lot of thought into it. Before you begin researching how to improve the page, ask yourself: 

Why did you design the pricing page the way you did? 

Which stakeholders need to be involved in the decision making process? 

Where are users getting stuck on the page?

Are any features currently working?

Step 2: Then gather information and research

In addition to understanding the history of the pricing and packaging page, it’s important to understand what works well. Part of this research means taking a look at what your competitor’s pricing pages look like. 

Ask yourself: 

How have our competitors set up their pricing pages?

Are there any pricing page best practices? 

How does color, positioning, and animation impact navigation? 

Are there any standard page layouts customers expect to see? 

Step 3: Organize and analyze information

You’ve gathered all of the information you need—now you need to organize and analyze it. What trends, if any, are you noticing? Is there any particularly relevant or important information that you have to consider? 

Step 4: Consider alternative viewpoints to reduce bias

In the case of critical thinking, it’s important to address and set bias aside as much as possible. Ask yourself: 

Is there anything I’m missing? 

Have I connected with the right stakeholders? 

Are there any other viewpoints I should consider? 

Step 5: Determine the most logical solution for your team

You now have all of the information you need to design the best pricing page. Depending on the complexity of the design, you may want to design a few options to present to a small group of customers or A/B test on the live website.

Step 6: Communicate your solution to stakeholders

Critical thinking skills can help you in every element of your life, but in the workplace, you must also involve key project stakeholders . Stakeholders help you determine next steps, like whether you’ll A/B test the page first. Depending on the complexity of the issue, consider hosting a meeting or sharing a status report to get everyone on the same page. 

Step 7: Reflect on the results

No process is complete without evaluating the results. Once the new page has been live for some time, evaluate whether it did better than the previous page. What worked? What didn’t? This also helps you make better critical decisions later on.

Tools and techniques to improve critical thinking skills

Understanding how to improve critical thinking skills has become a cornerstone of personal and professional growth in the 21st century. Recognizing the importance of critical thinking, experts across various disciplines have contributed valuable insights and methodologies. Here are some notable contributions from experts and institutions in the field:

Mind mapping: A visual approach to critical thinking skills

Mind mapping is a visual technique that helps organize and structure information. It's particularly useful for synthesizing complex ideas and identifying connections between different concepts. The benefits of mind mapping include:

Enhancing creativity by encouraging non-linear thinking

Improving memory and retention of information

Facilitating brainstorming and idea generation

Providing a clear overview of complex topics

To create a mind map:

Start with a central idea or concept.

Branch out with related sub topics or ideas.

Use colors, symbols, and images to enhance visual appeal and memorability.

Draw connections between related ideas across different branches.

Mind mapping can be particularly effective in project planning , content creation, and studying complex subjects.

The Socratic Method: Deepening critical thinking skills

The Socratic Method, named after the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates, involves asking probing questions to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas. This technique is widely used in higher education to teach critical thinking. Key aspects of the Socratic Method include:

Asking open-ended questions that encourage deeper reflection

Challenging assumptions and preconceived notions

Exploring the implications and consequences of ideas

Fostering intellectual curiosity and continuous inquiry

The Socratic Method can be applied in various settings:

In education, to encourage students to think deeply about subject matter

In business, it is important to challenge team members to consider multiple points of view.

In personal development, to examine one's own beliefs and decisions

Example: A high school teacher might use the Socratic Method to guide students through a complex ethical dilemma, asking questions like "What principles are at stake here?" and "How might this decision affect different stakeholders?"

SWOT analysis: Comprehensive critical thinking skills

SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis is a strategic planning tool that can be applied to critical thinking. It helps in evaluating situations from multiple angles, promoting a more thorough understanding of complex issues. The components of SWOT analysis are:

Strengths: internal positive attributes or assets

Weaknesses: internal negative attributes or limitations

Opportunities: External factors that could be beneficial

Threats: External factors that could be harmful

To conduct a SWOT analysis:

Clearly define the subject of analysis (e.g., a project, organization, or decision).

Brainstorm and list items for each category.

Analyze the interactions between different factors.

Use the analysis to inform strategy or decision-making.

Example: A startup might use SWOT analysis to evaluate its position before seeking investment, identifying its innovative technology as a strength, limited capital as a weakness, growing market demand as an opportunity, and established competitors as a threat.

Critical thinking resources

The Foundation for Critical Thinking : Based in California, this organization offers a wide range of resources, including books, articles, and workshops on critical thinking.

The National Council for Excellence in Critical Thinking : This council provides guidelines and standards for critical thinking instruction and assessment.

University of Louisville : Their Critical Thinking Initiative offers various resources and tools that teach people how to develop critical thinking skills.

The New York Times Learning Network provides lesson plans and activities to help develop critical thinking skills through current events and news analysis.

Critical thinking frameworks and tools

Paul-Elder Critical Thinking Framework : Developed by Dr. Richard Paul and Dr. Linda Elder, this framework provides a comprehensive approach to developing critical thinking skills.

Bloom's Taxonomy : While not exclusively for critical thinking, this classification system is widely used in education to promote higher-order thinking skills.

The California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory (CCTDI) : This assessment tool measures the disposition to engage in problems and make decisions using critical thinking.

The Ennis-Weir Critical Thinking Essay Test : Developed by Robert Ennis, this test assesses a person's ability to appraise an argument and to formulate a written argument.

By incorporating these tools and techniques into regular practice, individuals can learn how to improve critical thinking skills, which leads to more effective problem-solving, decision-making, and overall cognitive performance.

The power of critical thinking skills

Critical thinking skills take time to build, but with effort and patience you can apply an unbiased, analytical mind to any situation. Critical thinking makes up one of many soft skills that makes you an effective team member, manager, and worker. If you’re looking to hone your skills further, read our article on the 25 project management skills you need to succeed .

FAQ: Critical thinking skills

What is being a critical thinker?

Being a critical thinker means possessing strong critical thinking skills that allow you to analyze information objectively and make reasoned judgments. It involves developing analytical skills and the capacity for critical thought. A critical thinker questions assumptions, considers multiple perspectives, and bases decisions on evidence rather than emotions or biases.

What are the 5 C's of critical thinking?

The 5 C's of critical thinking are the core skill sets that make you a better critical thinker:

Curiosity: Asking questions and seeking new information

Creativity: Generating innovative solutions and ideas

Clarity: Expressing thoughts and ideas clearly and precisely

Consistency: Maintaining logical coherence in arguments and reasoning

Commitment: Dedicating oneself to ongoing learning and improvement

These skills directly improve critical thinking and strengthen overall cognitive abilities. Understanding and practicing these 5 C's is a fundamental aspect of how to develop critical thinking skills effectively.

How do you demonstrate critical thinking?

Demonstrating critical thinking involves applying your skill set in various situations. This includes analyzing problems, evaluating information sources, considering multiple perspectives, and using evidence-based reasoning. Many employers highlight these qualities in job descriptions, as they value employees who can apply critical thought to workplace challenges.

What is a real-life example of critical thinking?

A real-life critical thinking example could be making a major purchase decision, such as buying a car. Here's how you might apply critical thinking skills:

Research: Gather information about different car models, prices, and features

Analysis: Compare and contrast options based on your needs and budget

Evaluation: Assess the reliability of information sources (e.g., consumer reports, user reviews)

Questioning: Ask car dealers probing questions about warranties, maintenance costs, and resale value

Consideration of alternatives: Explore options like leasing or public transportation

Decision-making: Weigh pros and cons to make an informed choice

Reflection: After the purchase, evaluate your decision-making process for future improvement

This critical thinking example demonstrates how critical thought can be applied to everyday situations.

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Critical Thinking Definition, Skills, and Examples

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Critical thinking refers to the ability to analyze information objectively and make a reasoned judgment. It involves the evaluation of sources, such as data, facts, observable phenomena, and research findings.

Good critical thinkers can draw reasonable conclusions from a set of information, and discriminate between useful and less useful details to solve problems or make decisions. These skills are especially helpful at school and in the workplace, where employers prioritize the ability to think critically. Find out why and see how you can demonstrate that you have this ability.

Examples of Critical Thinking

The circumstances that demand critical thinking vary from industry to industry. Some examples include:

• A triage nurse analyzes the cases at hand and decides the order by which the patients should be treated.
• A plumber evaluates the materials that would best suit a particular job.
• An attorney reviews the evidence and devises a strategy to win a case or to decide whether to settle out of court.
• A manager analyzes customer feedback forms and uses this information to develop a customer service training session for employees.

Why Do Employers Value Critical Thinking Skills?

Employers want job candidates who can evaluate a situation using logical thought and offer the best solution.

Someone with critical thinking skills can be trusted to make decisions independently, and will not need constant handholding.

Hiring a critical thinker means that micromanaging won't be required. Critical thinking abilities are among the most sought-after skills in almost every industry and workplace. You can demonstrate critical thinking by using related keywords in your resume and cover letter and during your interview.

How to Demonstrate Critical Thinking in a Job Search

If critical thinking is a key phrase in the job listings you are applying for, be sure to emphasize your critical thinking skills throughout your job search.

Add Keywords to Your Resume

You can use critical thinking keywords (analytical, problem solving, creativity, etc.) in your resume. When describing your work history, include top critical thinking skills that accurately describe you. You can also include them in your resume summary, if you have one.

For example, your summary might read, “Marketing Associate with five years of experience in project management. Skilled in conducting thorough market research and competitor analysis to assess market trends and client needs, and to develop appropriate acquisition tactics.”

Mention Skills in Your Cover Letter

Include these critical thinking skills in your cover letter. In the body of your letter, mention one or two of these skills, and give specific examples of times when you have demonstrated them at work. Think about times when you had to analyze or evaluate materials to solve a problem.

Show the Interviewer Your Skills

You can use these skill words in an interview. Discuss a time when you were faced with a particular problem or challenge at work and explain how you applied critical thinking to solve it.

Some interviewers will give you a hypothetical scenario or problem, and ask you to use critical thinking skills to solve it. In this case, explain your thought process thoroughly to the interviewer. He or she is typically more focused on how you arrive at your solution rather than the solution itself. The interviewer wants to see you analyze and evaluate (key parts of critical thinking) the given scenario or problem.

Of course, each job will require different skills and experiences, so make sure you read the job description carefully and focus on the skills listed by the employer.

Top Critical Thinking Skills

Keep these in-demand skills in mind as you refine your critical thinking practice —whether for work or school.

Part of critical thinking is the ability to carefully examine something, whether it is a problem, a set of data, or a text. People with analytical skills can examine information, understand what it means, and properly explain to others the implications of that information.

• Asking Thoughtful Questions
• Data Analysis
• Interpretation
• Questioning Evidence
• Recognizing Patterns

Communication

Often, you will need to share your conclusions with your employers or with a group of classmates or colleagues. You need to be able to communicate with others to share your ideas effectively. You might also need to engage in critical thinking in a group. In this case, you will need to work with others and communicate effectively to figure out solutions to complex problems.

• Active Listening
• Collaboration
• Explanation
• Interpersonal
• Presentation
• Verbal Communication
• Written Communication

Critical thinking often involves creativity and innovation. You might need to spot patterns in the information you are looking at or come up with a solution that no one else has thought of before. All of this involves a creative eye that can take a different approach from all other approaches.

• Flexibility
• Conceptualization
• Imagination
• Drawing Connections
• Synthesizing

Open-Mindedness

To think critically, you need to be able to put aside any assumptions or judgments and merely analyze the information you receive. You need to be objective, evaluating ideas without bias.

• Objectivity
• Observation

Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is another critical thinking skill that involves analyzing a problem, generating and implementing a solution, and assessing the success of the plan. Employers don’t simply want employees who can think about information critically. They also need to be able to come up with practical solutions.

• Attention to Detail
• Clarification
• Decision Making
• Groundedness
• Identifying Patterns

More Critical Thinking Skills

• Inductive Reasoning
• Deductive Reasoning
• Noticing Outliers
• Adaptability
• Emotional Intelligence
• Brainstorming
• Optimization
• Restructuring
• Integration
• Strategic Planning
• Project Management
• Ongoing Improvement
• Causal Relationships
• Case Analysis
• Diagnostics
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Intelligence
• Quantitative Data Management
• Qualitative Data Management
• Risk Management
• Scientific Method
• Consumer Behavior

Key Takeaways

• Demonstrate you have critical thinking skills by adding relevant keywords to your resume.
• Mention pertinent critical thinking skills in your cover letter, too, and include an example of a time when you demonstrated them at work.
• Finally, highlight critical thinking skills during your interview. For instance, you might discuss a time when you were faced with a challenge at work and explain how you applied critical thinking skills to solve it.

University of Louisville. " What is Critical Thinking ."

American Management Association. " AMA Critical Skills Survey: Workers Need Higher Level Skills to Succeed in the 21st Century ."

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Cognitive Skills: What They Are, Types, List And Examples

Did you know that your mind is capable of predicting your future mood?

The definition of cognitive skills is a set of mental abilities or faculties that allow us to process everything that surrounds us and thus be able to form an appropriate response to our environment. You already know some mental faculties: intelligence, memory, attention or understanding. However, your mind has many secrets that will surprise you.

If you want to discover the 20 cognitive skills that you didn’t know you had, keep reading this interesting article from PsychologyFor, in it you will find What are they a person’s abilities, guys cognitive skills and examples of cognitive skills. Let’s address all the cognitive processes you can imagine, from the most common to the most surprising in order to develop your full potential.

Table of Contents

What are cognitive skills

As we mentioned initially, cognitive skills are those mental faculties that help us understand the world around us and to process the stimuli collected by the senses of sight, smell, touch, taste and hearing. According to many experts, the set of all cognitive abilities makes up intelligence or intellectual capacity.

Let’s take an example of cognitive skill: memory. Thanks to this cognitive ability, we can retain stimuli (a movie that we see and hear) and then be able to process it or save it in our memories.

Cognitive skills are the mental abilities that enable us to acquire knowledge, process information, and engage in problem-solving and decision-making tasks. From critical thinking to memory retention, these skills play a crucial role in every aspect of our lives, from learning and academic achievement to professional success and personal development. In this exploration of cognitive skills, we delve into their significance, various types, and strategies for enhancing them to unlock the full potential of the mind.

Understanding Cognitive Skills

Cognitive skills encompass a broad range of mental processes that enable us to interact with the world and make sense of our experiences. Some key cognitive skills include:

• Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information to form logical conclusions and make informed decisions.
• Problem-Solving: The capacity to identify challenges, generate potential solutions, and implement effective strategies to overcome obstacles and achieve goals.
• Memory: The ability to encode, store, and retrieve information from short-term and long-term memory, facilitating learning and retention.
• Attention: The capacity to focus and sustain attention on relevant tasks or stimuli while filtering out distractions.
• Language and Communication: The proficiency in language comprehension, expression, and communication, including verbal and non-verbal cues.
• Executive Functioning: The higher-order cognitive processes responsible for goal setting, planning, organization, time management, and self-regulation.

Importance of Cognitive Skills

Cognitive skills are integral to virtually every aspect of human functioning, influencing academic performance, career success, social relationships, and overall well-being. Here’s why cognitive skills matter:

• Academic Achievement: Strong cognitive skills are essential for academic success, enabling students to grasp complex concepts, solve problems, and excel in various subjects.
• Career Advancement: In the professional realm, cognitive skills are highly valued by employers, as they contribute to innovation, adaptability, and effective decision-making in the workplace.
• Social Interaction: Effective communication and interpersonal skills rely on cognitive abilities such as empathy, perspective-taking, and active listening, fostering meaningful connections with others.
• Life Skills: Beyond academia and career, cognitive skills are essential for everyday tasks such as financial management, problem-solving, and decision-making in diverse life situations.

Types of cognitive skills

The human being has a multitude of skills and mental faculties through which he can know and perceive the world through the senses. These skills can be classified into:

Basic cognitive skills

Cognitive abilities or basic cognitive processes are those that work directly on the information collected by the senses, that is, they are the first to process information from outside the basic cognitive skills are the following:

• Comprehension

Higher cognitive skills

These are the product of the combination of the first. What are higher cognitive abilities? The following:

• Metacognition

List of cognitive skills

Below we present a list of 20 cognitive abilities:

1. Memorization

Memory is that cognitive ability that allows us Store information In order to later understand it or develop a structured thought, we differentiate between short-term and long-term memory. Both processing are cognitive abilities that operate directly on stimuli. In this article you will find more information about the types of human memory.

2. Perception

Perception is the primary cognitive faculty, the most basic one since, thanks to it, our brain organizes and processes information.

3. Attention

Attention is that cognitive capacity with which we can direct our thinking towards a specific stimulus or action (for example, when we maintain attention in class or in a work meeting).

4. Understanding

Comprehension is a mental skill that helps us understand what is perceived and generate ideas through observation of the environment and the phenomena that occur in it. This is one of the most important basic cognitive skills.

5. Language

One of the mental abilities that most differentiates us from other living beings is the complicated language system that we have. This skill is a system of both vocal and written signs that facilitates the communication process among us.

6. Metacognition

This cognitive ability is also known as the ability to “notice our own thoughts or think about what we are thinking.” Here you will find the definition and examples of metacognition.

7. Motivation

Motivation is the cognitive skill of directing our energy towards a specific goal. Motivation can be intrinsic or extrinsic.

Emotion is the cognitive ability to express our feelings through a psychological sensation. In this article you will find the definition and a list of emotions.

9. Learning

In combination with memory and perception, we can generate thoughts that allow us to continue improving and adapting our behavior to the environment that surrounds us.

10. Reasoning

It is the cognitive ability that allows us to draw conclusions through perception and understanding.

11. Affective prediction

Also know as affective forecast a surprising cognitive ability with which our brain makes a prediction of our future mood.

12. Lateral thinking

This mental technique is a great help in solving problems since it allows us to look for alternatives to what would be the simplest or “logical” solution. For example, a person with developed lateral thinking can see a conflict from different perspectives and solve it in a new and ingenious way.

13. Emotional intelligence

Probably a skill you already knew. However, did you know that there are neurons in our brain that help us understand the emotional states of others? They are known as mirror neurons.

14. Planning

This mental faculty is the one that designs the steps we are going to take and the decisions we are going to make in a given period of time.

15. Self-regulation

Closely linked to planning, this cognitive skill is based on following each planned step and maintaining both motivation and attention to achieve the established objective. Self-regulation also serves to manage our emotions and produce an appropriate response to each situation.

16. Evaluation

This mental capacity is one that allows us evaluate any phenomenon, feeling or thought, whether your own or someone else’s. We should not confuse evaluation with judgment since the former is not linked to any social or moral factor.

17. Reorganization

We define reorganization as the act of modifying or changing the errors made until we can achieve our objective, an essential cognitive competence to adapt our behavior.

18. Anticipation

It is the cognitive skill that helps us get ahead of new learning Anticipation foresees the steps we are going to take and can predict the results

19. Creative capacity

Also known as creativity, this cognitive ability is what allows us to reproduce in our own way a feeling, thought and even something that our senses have captured. For example, we bring out our creative capacity when we write a poem or paint a painting. Discover here the characteristics of creative and innovative people.

20. Abstraction capacity

We all know imagination and can define it, but did you know that imagination is only one of the many factors that influence the capacity for abstraction? This cognitive ability is defined as the talent or ability to project in our mind all kinds of ideas, thoughts and concepts that cannot be transported to reality.

Examples of Cognitive Skills in Action

To better understand how cognitive skills manifest in real-life situations, let’s explore some practical examples:

• Attention : A project manager effectively prioritizes tasks and delegates responsibilities to team members while staying focused on the project’s objectives.
• Memory : An accountant accurately recalls financial data from previous quarters to identify trends and make informed forecasts.
• Problem-Solving : An engineer troubleshoots equipment malfunctions by systematically analyzing potential causes and implementing solutions.
• Critical Thinking : A marketing strategist evaluates market research data to develop targeted campaigns that resonate with the target audience.
• Creativity : A graphic designer conceptualizes visually striking designs that capture the essence of a brand’s identity.

In Education

• Attention : A student maintains concentration during lectures by actively engaging with the material and taking organized notes.
• Memory : A medical student recalls anatomical structures and functions during examinations through regular review and practice.
• Problem-Solving : A mathematics student solves complex equations by breaking them down into manageable steps and applying relevant formulas.
• Critical Thinking : A history student analyzes primary sources to form nuanced interpretations of historical events and developments.
• Creativity : An art student explores unconventional techniques and mediums to express personal vision and artistic concepts.

In Daily Life

• Attention : A driver maintains focus on the road while navigating through heavy traffic and reacting to unexpected hazards.
• Memory : A parent remembers important dates and appointments by using calendars and reminders to stay organized.
• Problem-Solving : A homeowner troubleshoots household issues by researching solutions online and seeking advice from experts.
• Critical Thinking : A consumer evaluates product reviews and comparisons before making informed purchasing decisions.
• Creativity : A hobbyist explores new recipes and cooking techniques to create delicious and inventive meals for family and friends.

Techniques to Enhance Cognitive Skills

While cognitive skills are influenced by genetic predispositions and developmental factors, there are several techniques that individuals can employ to enhance and maximize these abilities:

Practice Mindfulness

• Engage in activities such as meditation and deep breathing exercises to improve focus and attention.

Stay Physically Active

• Regular exercise promotes brain health and enhances cognitive function by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain.

Challenge Your Brain

• Stimulate your mind with puzzles, games, and activities that require problem-solving and critical thinking.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

• Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support brain health, and prioritize adequate sleep and hydration.

Continuously Learn and Grow

• Pursue lifelong learning opportunities to expand your knowledge base and stimulate cognitive growth.

By incorporating these techniques into your daily routine, you can nurture and strengthen your cognitive skills, ultimately enhancing your overall cognitive functioning and quality of life.

Unleashing the Full Potential of the Mind

Cognitive skills are the cornerstone of human intelligence and adaptability, empowering us to navigate life’s challenges, pursue our goals, and fulfill our potential. By understanding the significance of cognitive skills, recognizing their various types, and adopting strategies for their enhancement, we can unlock the full potential of our minds and thrive in an ever-evolving world of knowledge and innovation.

Cognitive skills are essential for navigating the complexities of modern life, from the workplace to personal relationships. By understanding the various facets of cognitive skills, recognizing examples of their application in different contexts, and employing techniques to enhance these abilities, individuals can unlock their full cognitive potential and thrive in today’s dynamic world.

What Is Cognitive Potential?

Cognitive potential is the inherent ability of an individual to process information, think creatively, and solve problems. It’s not just about IQ or intelligence; it encompasses a wide range of cognitive functions including memory, attention, reasoning, and creativity. Cognitive potential is often seen as the foundation for learning and intellectual development.

Components of Cognitive Potential

Understanding the key components of cognitive potential can help you identify areas where you can grow and improve.

• Memory : The ability to store and recall information is crucial for learning and problem-solving.
• Attention : Focus and concentration allow you to process information efficiently and avoid distractions.
• Reasoning : The ability to analyze information and draw logical conclusions is essential for decision-making.
• Creativity : Thinking outside the box and generating new ideas are important aspects of cognitive potential.
• Problem-Solving : The ability to find solutions to complex issues is a key indicator of cognitive strength.

Factors That Influence Cognitive Potential

Cognitive potential is not fixed; it can be influenced by various factors, both genetic and environmental.

Your cognitive potential is partly determined by genetics. Studies have shown that certain genes play a role in cognitive abilities, including memory and problem-solving skills. However, genetics is just one piece of the puzzle.

Environment

The environment in which you grow up and live also has a significant impact on your cognitive potential.

• Education : Access to quality education can enhance cognitive development by providing the tools and opportunities to learn and grow.
• Social Interaction : Engaging with others, especially in intellectually stimulating conversations, can boost cognitive abilities.
• Nutrition : A healthy diet that includes essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals is vital for brain health.

Your lifestyle choices also play a crucial role in determining your cognitive potential.

• Physical Exercise : Regular physical activity has been shown to improve brain function and protect against cognitive decline.
• Mental Stimulation : Activities like reading, playing musical instruments, or solving puzzles can keep your brain sharp and enhance cognitive abilities.
• Sleep : Adequate sleep is essential for cognitive function, as it helps consolidate memories and supports mental clarity.

How to Enhance Your Cognitive Potential

Engage in lifelong learning.

One of the most effective ways to boost your cognitive potential is to commit to lifelong learning.

• Take Courses : Enroll in courses or workshops that challenge your mind and expand your knowledge base.
• Read Regularly : Reading a variety of materials, from fiction to non-fiction, can stimulate your mind and improve cognitive function.
• Learn New Skills : Acquiring new skills, whether it’s a language or a musical instrument, can enhance your cognitive abilities by creating new neural connections.

Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation practices can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function.

• Mindfulness Exercises : Simple mindfulness exercises, such as focusing on your breath or being fully present in the moment, can improve attention and concentration.
• Meditation : Regular meditation has been shown to increase grey matter in the brain, which is associated with improved memory and learning abilities.

A healthy lifestyle supports cognitive function in many ways.

• Balanced Diet : Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to provide the nutrients your brain needs.
• Physical Activity : Regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain and promotes the growth of new brain cells.
• Sleep Hygiene : Prioritize sleep by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a restful environment.

Keeping your brain challenged is crucial for maintaining and improving cognitive potential.

• Brain Games : Engage in brain games like puzzles, crosswords, or Sudoku to keep your mind sharp.
• Problem-Solving Activities : Participate in activities that require critical thinking and problem-solving, such as strategy games or coding.
• Creative Hobbies : Pursue creative hobbies like painting, writing, or playing music to stimulate different areas of your brain.

Socialize and Collaborate

Social interaction is a powerful tool for boosting cognitive potential.

• Join Groups : Participate in social groups or clubs where you can engage in stimulating discussions and collaborative activities.
• Volunteer : Volunteering can provide opportunities to learn new skills, meet new people, and engage in meaningful work that challenges your cognitive abilities.
• Teach Others : Teaching or mentoring others can reinforce your knowledge and help you develop new insights.

The Role of Technology in Enhancing Cognitive Potential

Cognitive training apps.

There are numerous apps designed to enhance cognitive function through targeted exercises.

• Brain Training Apps : Apps like Lumosity or Elevate offer a variety of games and activities designed to improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
• Language Learning Apps : Learning a new language through apps like Duolingo can enhance cognitive flexibility and memory.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual reality is emerging as a tool for cognitive enhancement.

• Immersive Learning : VR can provide immersive learning experiences that engage multiple senses, making it easier to retain information.
• Cognitive Rehabilitation : VR is also being used in cognitive rehabilitation to help individuals recover from brain injuries or manage cognitive decline.

Cognitive potential is not a fixed attribute; it can be developed and enhanced through intentional practices and lifestyle choices. By engaging in lifelong learning, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, challenging your brain, and leveraging technology, you can unlock the full power of your mind. Remember, the journey to maximizing your cognitive potential is ongoing—there’s always room for growth and improvement.

This article is merely informative, at PsychologyFor we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.

If you want to read more articles similar to Cognitive skills: what they are, types, list and examples we recommend that you enter our Cognitive Psychology category.

Bibliography

• Navarro, R. (2004). Education and the development of cognitive skills.
• Schmidt, S. (2006). Competencies, cognitive abilities, practical skills and attitudes definitions and development.
• Soledad, BJ (2014). Basic cognitive skills: formation and deterioration/em. UNED Publishing.

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9 cognitive skill examples and how to improve them

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What are cognitive skills?

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How to improve your cognitive skills

Stay focused.

Out of the blue, your team leader drops a curveball: the team is adopting a new project management app and updating work performance standards. 

Such an abrupt shift pushes your most basic cognitive skills into action. You diligently listen to your manager's instructions, process the influx of new information, and use logic to understand it all.

Normally, your thinking skills operate in the background, quietly supporting your daily work. But moments like this emphasize the incredible potential of your brain and the importance of honing your cognitive abilities.

Of course, some abilities — such as reasoning, visual learning, and listening — may come more naturally than others. Don’t worry: like any skill, you can grow and develop your brain power.

Prepare to unlock the full potential of your mind . Let's explore examples of cognitive skills and discover practical ways to elevate them in the workplace.

What are cognitive skills? 

The definition of cognitive skills encompasses your brain's remarkable capacity to process, store, and utilize information . These include abilities such as concentration , memory , and problem-solving.

Your cognitive skills operate subtly yet significantly, shaping your social interactions, learning processes, and ability to complete tasks successfully.

Say you meet a potential client at a networking event. Your brain effortlessly processes various pieces of information, from nonverbal social cues (like gestures ) to your elevator pitch . In this scenario, your adaptability is the defining factor between a successful and unsuccessful connection.

Cognitive development begins in infancy and early childhood and continues throughout your life. Your brain learns and grows as you age — a process called neuroplasticity . The more you train your mind through goal-setting and skill learning, the sharper your brain becomes. 

Research suggests the greater your cognitive ability, the better your performance . But there’s a caveat: your cognitive skills don’t operate in a vacuum. Self-discipline and planning also play a strong role in your ability to access and improve these abilities.

Although you may lean toward certain skills — perhaps your auditory processing is stronger than your visual learning — you can improve in any area with thoughtful practice and goal-setting .

Remember: your cognitive skills define your capacity for processing incoming information, building memories, and interpreting stimuli. Before jumping into cognitive skills to fine-tune, let’s explore eight different types of cognitive skills and their daily applications:  

Attention abilities

The world is full of stimuli. With so many distractions, it’s important to build up your ability to keep your focus. 

Your attention span is divided into three categories: 

• Sustained attention: This is your ability to focus and concentrate your thought processes over an extended period of time. You’ve likely been in a meeting or call where your mind started to wander — that was your sustained attention clocking off. But when you let distractions get the best of you, you might procrastinate , take exc essive time to complete tasks, or lose out on important information. 
• Selective attention : When various stimuli battle for your attention, your selective attention helps you suppress distractions and stay on task. Giving into distractions pushes your workflow off course and disrupts your productivity.  
• Divided attention : When you’re working on a project, you often have constructive feedback from your manager, requests from your client, and the scope of work to consider. Your divided attention allows you to take in all this information and find the right path forward. Without it, you might become overwhelmed and struggle to chart a course of action.

Memory skills

At work, building your memory helps ensure that information doesn't go in one ear and out the other. These are the two types of memories to polish: 

• Working memory : Sometimes referred to as your short-term memory, working memory allows you to hold on to information while you use it. Imagine a virtual onboarding with a new project management app: your working memory allows you to process instructions as you work through the platform. Weak working memory can cost you time. You might re-read directions, forget what someone just told you, or have difficulty following step-by-step instructions.
• Long-term memory : Long-term memories are the procedures, facts, and experiences you use to interact with your environment and learn new skills . Your long-term memory guides your professional development as you build upon your knowledge and expertise. Without a sharp long-term memory, you may struggle to fine-tune important technical skills or build relationships impo rtant to your career. 

Information processing skills

Pings on your phone, numbers on a chart, and the inflection of a coworker's voice all signal different messages. Here are three ways your brain processes information: 

• Auditory processing: Noise is identified, analyzed, and separated by your auditory processing abilities. Auditory processing disorder is a common cognitive disorder that impacts your ability to listen to speech with background noise, follow spoken instructions, or learn new languages. 
• Visual processing: This is your ability to perceive, analyze, and synthesize visual patterns — as well as form visual imagery and memory. It’s not uncommon to struggle with visual pro cessing, which can make pattern recognition in math and written instructions difficult. Fortunately, this can often be improved with a vision therapist . 
• Processing speed: This is the time required to respond to and process information from your environment. Low processing speeds can cause you to take longer to complete tasks — especially under pressure — which throws off your efficiency and workflow.

What are examples of cognitive skills at work? 

Ready to level up your performance? Here are nine examples of cognitive skills to work on to strengthen your professional development:

1. Logic and reasoning 

The ability to draw specific conclusions based on varied facts or data is your deductive reasoning. Even mundane tasks, like organizing your calendar, require strong logic and problem-solving skills. Deductive reasoning also helps you gauge importance, estimate work times, and set realistic goals. Without these logical thinking skills, you would struggle to work productively. 

2. Language

Language is divided into four skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Every person is different — you may be an excellent writer but struggle with verbally expressing your ideas. However, clearly communicating your ideas is valuable in just about any role. Strong language skills can help you overcome miscommunications, resolve conflict, and encourage teamwork.  

3. Critical thinking

Critical thinking is a union of several soft skills , including attention to detail, intellectual curiosity , and open-mindedness. These traits are integral to problem-solving because they help you work through biases and arrive at independent, out-of-the-box solutions . That’s likely why critical thinking is considered one of the most durable skills in the workplace . 

4. Planning

Your day-to-day is full of short-term tasks and long-term objectives. Without proper planning, you could become disorganized or miss important deadlines. Planning requires logic and memory recall — these skills allow you to estimate a task's relevance and how long it should take to complete. Learning to organize and prioritize your tasks empowers you to be efficient, responsible, and proactive.

5. Quantitative skills

An understanding of statistics and math helps you turn ideas into data and eliminate emotional biases from important decisions. Data analysis is an increasingly important hard skill to have on your resume .

And as artificial intelligence and big data can contribute to businesses project growth and calculate risk, learning quantitative tools might help you stay competitive in the job market. Similarly, if you’re a freelancer building a personal brand , being able to read analytics allows you to engage wider audiences and find opportunities in your market. 

6. Networking

Making the right first impression is a science. It requires you to pay attention to social cues and process several visual and auditory stimuli from the person you’re networking with. Practicing active listening trains your brain to sustain its focus and pick up on information that will lead to positive and productive professional interactions. 

In the digital age, we work with more emails, project management tools, and messenger apps than ever before. While you don’t have to aspire to be a copywriting master, learning to organize your thoughts and contextualize them for your readers can reduce miscommunications. And when someone understands a message immediately, it saves you and your colleagues time that you can dedicate to more important tasks. 

8. Reading comprehension

Reading requires you to connect ideas, sustain your focus, and recall past experiences or know-how to de-code information. Similar to writing, analyzing and contextualizing information can help you avoid misunderstandings and improve your productivity. Reading comprehension is important in any job, particularly remote jobs that depend heavily on written communication. 

9. Collaboration

While collaboration may sound more like a social skill than a cognitive function, efficient teamwork requires abstract thinking. These skills help you break a project down into different tasks, leverage everyone’s strengths, and keep on top of all your team members’ deliverables. 

Inspired to level up your cognitive capacities? Here are four ways to take care of your brain: 

1. Stay healthy

Your physical and mental health are intimately connected to one another. Besides working up a sweat, physical exercise builds new neurons and stimulates memory by increasing blood flow to the brain. 

Consider developing a routine to get your 150 minutes of recommended weekly exercise , like an after work swim, joining a jogging club, or hiring a personal trainer. Similarly, a firm sleep schedule , staying hydrated , and good nutrition are complimentary habits that contribute to better brain health. 

2. Practice focusing

Repetition leads to success, which also applies to strengthening your focus. Methods like the Pomodoro Technique and concentration-based apps are great ways to build self-awareness and discover how you can stay on track.

Learning task management methods (like the Eisenhower Matrix) , adopting work productivity tools, or occasional digital detoxes are more ways to prioritize your focus. Find what works for you and practice until it becomes a habit. This prolonged ability to concentrate will strengthen your overall cognitive abilities.  

3. Reduce your stress

Worry activates your fight or flight response , which can cause mental fatigue and poor sleep. Acute stress or anxiety can often be improved by developing regular self-care practices, such as meditation , yoga, and deep breathing. 

Chronic stress is a more serious mental health risk with serious implications on your short term wellness and long-term cognitive health. Mental health professionals can help you identify the root cause of your stress and provide you with the tools and resources to ease your mind.

4. Train your brain

Your brain is like any other muscle in your body — to keep it in peak condition, you need to work it out. Incorporate some mental activities into your free time , such as reading before bed, playing chess on your lunch break, or following a serial podcast during your daily commute. You ca n also try memory or reasoning games to sharpen your cognitive skills in fun and practical ways. Even two minutes a day dedicated to self-improvement can grow your skills. 

Your brain is working even when you aren’t. But even though many of your cognitive skills are firing off in the background, you can still work to actively sharpen your abilities. 

The next time you’re tackling a new task, pay close attention to your focus. How easily do you succumb to distractions? Do you respond better to visual or auditory learning? Once you understand your strengths and acknowledge your weaknesses, you can incorporate techniques to improve. 

Eventually, you won’t have to focus so much on focusing. And the next time your coworker comes at you with a curveball, you’ll have the resources and know-how to take the change in stride. 

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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Discover the 7 essential types of life skills you need, are you reaching your full potential a guide to personal development, using mindfulness skills to improve your daily life, how to improve adaptability skills, critical thinking is the one skillset you can't afford not to master, 8 social skills examples: how socializing can take you to the top, why self-management is key to success and how to improve yours, what is self-preservation 5 skills for achieving it, eidetic memory: can you train your brain to remember better, eq versus iq: which should you leverage when, the 12 best brain games for adults to train memory and focus, understanding cognitive distortions and how to counter them, what is analysis paralysis meaning and 9 tips to overcome it, top-down processing & how to avoid self-limiting behavior, squirrel how to increase attention span so you get stuff done, all about the 3 types of memory and how they form, what are metacognitive skills examples in everyday life, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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13 Key Critical Thinking Skills Examples & How To Build Them

• Written by HIGH5 Content & Review Team
• March 29, 2024
• Professional skills

Critical thinking skills are essential for success in virtually any industry, and the HIGH5 strengths assessment can be a powerful tool for developing these abilities. By identifying an individual’s unique strengths, the HIGH5 assessment provides valuable insights into how they can leverage their natural talents to become more effective critical thinkers.

Critical thinkers who understand and apply their strengths tend to be more successful in their careers, better leaders, and more skilled at creating long-term visions. The strengths-based approach offered by HIGH5 can help individuals, teams, and organizations foster a culture of critical thinking, leading to improved decision-making, problem-solving, and overall performance.

Critical thinking abilities benefit us not only during the course of a decade-long career but rather, they are also beneficial in everyday life. Being able to put aside personal biases can lead to discovering new friends or cultures. It also helps you discern between fake news and accurate reporting. However, the critical thinking process comes more naturally for some than others. For those who may need some insight into critical thinking strategies, consider reading the following article.

What are critical thinking skills?

Critical thinking is the ability to search for a connection between ideas, gather basic knowledge in stressful situations, spot errors in reasoning, and think rationally. Certain philosophers and scientists hold conflicting views on what causes individuals to think critically or lose this ability. This skill is becoming increasingly important during the digital era.

Being able to think for yourself, also called independent thinking, is another key element of critical thought. Reflective thinking, which involves reconsidering your own notions when confronted with conflicting ideas, is equally important.

Thinking critically involves constantly adapting your views or decisions based on the evidence presented to you. To be a clearer thinker, you must keep an open mind as well as actively learn and listen. Critical thinkers do not stick to certain beliefs unless the evidence continues to support such notions.

Pro Tip From HIGH5 Leverage your strengths identified by the HIGH5 assessment to approach critical thinking challenges. For example, if one of your strengths is ‘Analytical,’ use this strength to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable components.”

13 key critical thinking skills

Observation.

Intuition does not usually fuel critical thinking. However, being able to quickly identify problems is truly important to critical thought. This is why being observant can be a beneficial trait. Not only can observant individuals recognize issues, but they are also skilled at addressing the root cause of the problem.

Through past experiences, observant people can learn the likely causes of certain issues. Then, they can quickly overcome such negative situations in the future.

After acknowledging a problem, the next step is to analyze it. Great analyzers often rely on specific data, statistics, or other facts to fuel their decisions. The HIGH5 strengths assessment can help individuals identify their analytical strengths. By leveraging these strengths, individuals can more effectively gather and interpret relevant information, leading to better decision-making and problem-solving.

Gaining expert opinions, reading unbiased research, exploring further data-collecting options, and objectively analyzing the data are other elements of analysis.

There is an immense difference between inference and inaccurate guesswork. Inferencing is a beneficial skill that requires you to learn from the past to benefit the future.

When inferencing, you will have to use the limited information available to you to craft a solution. While impulses force you to quickly make (often inaccurate) decisions, inferences are well thought out and rooted in planning/prior expertise.

Communication

Virtually everyone has to speak with a team during their job. When doing so, using proper communication skills can help the entire team agree on correct decisions. Your colleagues will be able to understand abstract ideas if you use simplified language, for instance.

Respect and active listening both play a role in your ability to communicate with the rest of your team. Additionally, you can communicate more effectively if you use a calm voice and present rational ideas.

Problem-solving

The last step of a plan is nearly always execution. However, you cannot expect everything to go according to plan. Being able to solve any of the inevitable challenges you may face requires sound logic and problem-solving abilities. If you determine your original plan is no longer satisfactory, you will have to formulate a new plan using your problem-solving skills in combination with your critical thinking.

Analytical thinking

Critical thinking is all about rational thought. Quickly and accurately assessing information and later interpreting it are the first two steps of analytical thinking. However, you must remember to be skeptical of certain results, especially if they seem too good to be true or illogical. Analytical thought can help you separate useful data and information from the white noise.

Creative thinking

Thinking critically is not simply just data collection. Understanding abstract concepts and relating patterns are equally important to the critical thinking process. Creative ideas can give you a competitive advantage over your competitors. Additionally, it boosts your efficiency.

Open-mindedness

Everybody has biases, whether they are conscious or subconscious. They can come from past experiences, societal stereotypes, or anywhere else. By recognizing these beliefs, you can improve your decision-making ability and become more open-minded. Try listening to others for their input on your strategies or decisions for a more open-minded approach to leadership.

Asking thoughtful questions

Asking the right questions can lead to better outcomes when problems are identified. For instance, open-ended questions can help you identify the root of a problem for a more relevant answer than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no.’

You can also learn how items work by asking structural questions. In general, a better understanding of the problem can help you formulate more accurate solutions.

Self-reflection

Self-reflection is the process of reassessing the way you approach problems and think about solutions. This analysis can help you spot your problem-solving and critical-thinking weaknesses. Later, you can address these issues to streamline your critical thought process and find other ways you can approach situations.

Reasoned judgment

The capacity to make well-thought-out decisions based on careful consideration of relevant information and potential outcomes.

Decision-making

The skill of selecting the best course of action among several alternatives to achieve a desired result.

Identifying biases

The ability to recognize and mitigate personal and systemic biases that can affect decision-making and team dynamics.

How to showcase critical thinking skills in a job interview?

To showcase your critical thinking skills in a job interview, provide specific examples of past experiences where you successfully identified problems and devised effective solutions. Highlight your ability to analyze information, weigh pros and cons, and make reasoned decisions. Demonstrating your reflective thinking and ability to identify biases can further emphasize your critical thinking capabilities.

How to highlight critical thinking skills in a resume?

To showcase your critical thinking skills in a resume, include specific examples in your experience section where you solved complex problems or improved processes. Highlight achievements that required analytical thinking, such as optimizing workflows, developing strategic plans, or implementing innovative solutions. Use action verbs like “analyzed,” “evaluated,” and “strategized” to convey your critical thinking abilities.

How to start developing critical thinking skills at work?

Developing effective solutions can be challenging, but everyone has the potential to enhance their critical thinking skills and boost their performance at work. One powerful tool for teams and organizations is the HIGH5 strengths assessment . By identifying and leveraging the unique strengths of each team member, organizations can foster a culture of critical thinking and collaboration.

When individuals understand their own strengths and the strengths of their colleagues, they can more effectively challenge cognitive biases, share diverse perspectives, and develop innovative solutions. These biases often lead to mistakes in reasoning which can be easily avoided. Biases can come in the form of stereotypes or simply sticking to the same plan over and over again.

Do not be afraid to venture out of your usual critical thinking strategies. Impulsion can become an obstacle to thinking clearly. Make sure you collect as much data as necessary before making a decision. After committing to a plan, make a conscious effort to reevaluate your idea. If you see the outcome is not optimal, reassess your strategy. Adapting to the evidence is a key part of critical thinking in the workplace.

Prepare for future situations by understanding the outcomes of your prior and current decisions. Always try to learn from your mistakes as well as the mistakes of others. Actively listen to your coworkers to gain additional insight from them. Their help can be instrumental in making the most beneficial decisions.

Pro Tip From HIGH5 As a team, discuss how each member’s strengths can contribute to critical thinking in the workplace. Encourage team members to share their perspectives and ideas based on their unique strengths, creating a more well-rounded approach to problem-solving.

How to improve current critical thinking skills in the workplace?

Once you acquire some critical thinking abilities, it is time to consider ways to improve them. As with any personal growth, becoming a better critical thinker involves constant practice and persistence. Critical thinking is not solely related to soft skills. By improving your technical abilities and getting better at industry-specific tasks, you will be able to solve problems quickly. Another great way to gain critical thinking insight is by furthering your education in your field.

You do not have to go back to college, for simply taking a few online courses can expose you to new problems and ideas. Getting advice from other professionals can also be especially useful. Stay actively involved at your workplace. Whenever a problem arises, be the first person to volunteer a solution. Talk to your team about the strategy you find most efficient during meetings and do not be afraid to share your opinion.

In fact, even games can serve as critical thinking skills training. Many board games require rapid decision-making, rational thought, and inferencing. If you are still confused, do not hesitate to speak with a mentor or coworker. They can provide you with a more objective outlook on your strengths and weaknesses. Plus, your boss can compare your strategies to others he has seen to tell you how well-developed your thought process is.

What are critical thinking skills for students?

Critical thinking is a crucial skill set for academic success, and the HIGH5 strengths assessment can be a valuable tool for students looking to develop these abilities. By identifying their unique strengths, students can gain a deeper understanding of how they learn, process information, and approach problems.

This self-awareness can help students more effectively apply critical thinking skills in their studies, such as recognizing patterns, weighing pros and cons, and defending their ideas. Incorporating the strengths-based approach into their academic journey can lead to greater engagement, motivation, and overall success.

To think critically, students must start to:

• Understand patterns (as well as use deductive reasoning) and form connections between ideas.
• Determine how important certain data is to decision-making and weigh the pros and cons of certain choices. This helps make decision-making more accurate and quick.
• Recognize and formulate arguments while being respectful to those who disagree. Respect is crucial for maintaining relationships, while argument creation helps in persuasion and making your ideas clear.
• Recognize bad reasoning. It is important for students to understand logical fallacies and illogical conclusions so they do not make decisions based on flawed statistics or information.
• Use more than one strategy to approach problems. Students will have to adapt to problems when the outcome does not follow their plan.
• Defend their ideas and choices. When questioned about their beliefs (which inevitably occurs in teams) students must defend their ideas to get them widely accepted.

3 practical examples of critical skills in use

In a customer service role, keen observation skills can help identify recurring issues in customer complaints. By noticing patterns, a team member can propose changes to the process or product, leading to improved customer satisfaction and reduced complaint rates.

A project manager conducts a post-project review to evaluate what went well and what didn’t. Through self-reflection, they identify areas for personal improvement and team development, which enhances future project outcomes and team performance.

Decision-making in the workplace

During a budget crisis, a department head analyzes current expenditures and forecasts future impacts. By making informed decisions to cut non-essential costs and reallocate resources, they ensure the department remains functional without compromising essential services.

Critical thinking skills FAQ

How do you demonstrate critical thinking skills.

First, ensure that a section of your resume is dedicated to listing your soft skills. Putting critical thinking in this list will show the hiring manager you are proud of your strengths. However, that will not be enough.

To truly demonstrate your abilities, you must come into the interview prepared with specific examples of you using your critical thinking skills.

Be sure these examples also show the positive impact your critical thought had on the business. Try to use statistics when supporting the claim that you are a critical thinker.

Why is critical thinking important in a job interview?

Critical thinking is important to a job interview because most employers value critical thinking highly. They believe critical thinkers give their company a competitive advantage in the market.

This is so because critical thinking leads to more efficient problem-solving, creative ideas, and rational discussions among employees. In Australia alone, the demand for critical thinking skills rose 158% over 3 years, proving there is a strong demand for this skill.

What are the 5 critical thinking skills?

A multitude of sub-skills can contribute to one’s ability to think critically. However, seven skills are recognized as the most crucial for seamless critical thought.

These skills are analysis, interpretation, inference, explanation, self-regulation, open-mindedness, and problem-solving. At times, self-regulation and explanation are not included in this list, leaving just the five skills as the most important.

How do you become a critical thinker?

To become a critical thinker, practice analyzing information objectively, questioning assumptions, and considering multiple perspectives. Engaging in reflective thinking and continuous learning also enhances critical thinking skills.

What makes a person a critical thinker?

A critical thinker is someone who consistently evaluates information and arguments with an open mind and logical reasoning. They possess the ability to recognize biases, think independently, and make well-informed decisions.

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16 Cognitive Skills that Matter, How to Improve Them

• Cognitive Skills and Study Methods , Edublox Research
• Sue du Plessis
• May 6, 2023

Cognitive skills are mental skills used in acquiring knowledge, manipulating information, reasoning, and problem-solving. Synonyms are cognitive abilities, cognitive functions, or cognitive capabilities.

Cognitive skills can be considered a person’s tools for learning. With the right tools, one can complete tasks with ease and efficiency. Imagine, for example, trying to mix cement with a spoon rather than a cement mixer. Imagine trying to mow the lawn with a pair of scissors!

One of the most common complaints among educators is that their students lack the cognitive or brain-based abilities to handle a curriculum. Although this is anecdotal at best, teaching cognitive skills is overlooked at all levels of education.

Table of contents:

List of core cognitive skills, why do cognitive skills matter, how can cognitive skills be improved, key takeaways.

The word “core” refers to the central, innermost, or most essential part of anything. Therefore, core cognitive skills (hereafter referred to as cognitive skills) are essential brain-based skills without which learning will most likely fail. Cognitive skills include perception, attention, memory, and logical reasoning:

– Perception

Sensation is the pickup of information by our sensory receptors, for example, the eyes, ears, skin, nostrils, and tongue. In vision, sensation occurs as rays of light are collected by the eye and focused on the retina. In hearing, sensation occurs as waves of pulsating air are collected by the outer ear and transmitted through the bones of the middle ear to the cochlear nerve.

On the other hand, perception — also called processing — is interpreting what is sensed. For example, the physical events transmitted to the retina may be interpreted as a particular color, pattern, or shape. Likewise, the physical events picked up by the ear may be interpreted as musical sounds, a human voice, noise, and so forth. In essence, then, perception means interpretation.

• Visual perception is the cognitive component of interpreting visual stimuli. Simpler said, visual perception is what the brain does with what the eye sees .
• Auditory perception is the ability to identify, interpret, and attach meaning to sound; it is what the brain does with what the ears hear.
• Phonological awareness , especially phonemic awareness. Phonemic awareness is the ability to hear and manipulate the individual sounds (phonemes) in words and is at the heart of reading.
• Processing speed involves one or more of the following functions: the length of time it takes to perceive information, process information, and formulate or enact a response. Another way to define processing speed is to say that it’s the time required to perform an intellectual task or the amount of work that can be completed within a certain period. Even simpler, one can define processing speed as how long it takes to get stuff done.

A lack of experience may cause a person to misinterpret what he has seen or heard. In other words, perception represents our apprehension of a present situation in terms of our past experiences , or, as stated by the philosopher Immanuel Kant in his book Critique of Pure Reason (1781): “We see things not as they are but as we are.” .

– Attention

The process of perception is very much affected by attention, a phenomenon that involves filtering incoming stimuli. Human beings do not pay attention to everything in their environments, nor do they attend to all the stimuli impinging on their sense organs. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by the enormous complexity of the physical world, we attend to some stimuli and do not notice others.

William James (1842-1910) recognized the importance of attention very early. “A thing may be present to a man a hundred times, but if he persistently fails to notice it, it cannot be said to enter his experience,” he wrote in his book Psychology: The Briefer Course .

We can split attention into focused , sustained , and divided attention :

• Focused attention refers to paying attention to the most important things in your environment while screening out distractions.
• Sustained attention enables us to stay focused for a sustained period.
• Divided attention requires one to perform two (or more) tasks simultaneously, and one needs attention for both (or all). .

– Memory

Memory is how knowledge is encoded, stored, and later retrieved. Although the word memory may conjure up an image of a singular, “all-or-none” process, it is clear that there are many kinds of memory, each of which may be somewhat independent of the others.

B ased on the length of time the memory is stored, there are four main categories:

• Sensory memory is the shortest-term element of memory. It is the ability to retain impressions of sensory information after the original stimuli have ended. It acts as a kind of buffer for stimuli received through the five senses of sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch, which are retained accurately but very briefly. For example, the ability to look at something and remember what it looked like with just a second of observation is an example of sensory memory. The sensory recall of visual stimuli is sometimes known as iconic memory , the recall of aural stimuli as echoic memory , and that of touch as haptic memory .
• Short-term memory is the part of the brain’s memory system that holds information the individual is consciously thinking about at the moment. Its capacity appears limited to about seven items; unless the information is rehearsed, it will be lost in about 30 seconds.

• Working memory is the ability to hold information in your head and manipulate it mentally. One can compare it to the control tower of a major airport, which is responsible for scheduling and coordinating all incoming and outgoing flights. You need this memory type to retain ideas and thoughts as you work on problems. In writing a letter, for example, you must be able to keep the last sentence in mind as you compose the next. Likewise, to solve an arithmetic problem such as (3 X 3) + (4 X 2) in your head, you need to keep the intermediate results in mind (i.e., 3 X 3 = 9) to be able to solve the entire problem.
• Long-term memory is the relatively permanent storage system that holds information indefinitely. In it, we store last year’s football scores, the image of an elephant, and how to ride a bicycle. We also appear to be storing information that we can’t consciously retrieve but still affects our behavior.

When it comes to memory, one’s senses are involved too.

• Visual memory involves the brain’s ability to store and retrieve previously experienced visual sensations and perceptions when the original stimuli are no longer present. Various researchers have stated that as much as 80 percent of all learning occurs through the eye, with visual memory being a crucial aspect.
• Auditory memory involves taking in information that is presented orally, processing that information, storing it in one’s mind, and then recalling what one has heard. Basically, it involves the skills of attending, listening, processing, storing, and recalling.
• Sequential memory requires one to recall items in a specific order. For example, the order of the elements is paramount in counting and saying the days of the week, months of the year, a telephone number, and the alphabet. Visual sequential memory is the ability to remember things seen in sequence, while auditory sequential memory is the ability to remember things heard in order. .

– Logical reasoning

Logical reasoning is the process of arriving at a conclusion using a rational, systematic series of steps based on sound mathematical procedures and given statements. In logic, there are two broad methods of concluding: deductive reasoning and inductive reasoning.

• Deductive reasoning begins with a broad truth (the major premise), such as the statement that all men are mortal. This is followed by the minor premise, a more specific statement, such as that Socrates is a man. A conclusion follows: Socrates is mortal. The conclusion cannot be false if both the major and minor premises are true.
• In inductive reasoning , broad conclusions are drawn from specific observations; data leads to conclusions. If the data shows a tangible pattern, it will support a hypothesis. For example, having seen ten white swans, we could use inductive reasoning to conclude that all swans are white.

Of course, this hypothesis is easier to disprove than prove, and premises are not necessarily true, but true given the existing evidence and that one cannot find a situation in which it is not.

Many studies over many decades have shown that cognitive skills — perception, attention, memory, and logical reasoning — determine an individual’s learning ability; according to Oxfordlearning.com , they are the skills that “separate the good learners from the so-so learners.” In essence, when cognitive skills are strong, learning is fast and easy. Conversely, when cognitive skills are weak, learning becomes a challenge.

Since cognitive abilities are crucial to reading, writing, math, and learning, they are typically impaired in developmental disorders of attention, language, reading, and mathematics, such as ADHD , dyslexia , dyscalculia , and dysgraphia .

– Key to reading, writing, math, and learning

• A study by Cheng et al . (2018) suggests that  visual perception  deficits commonly underlie developmental dyslexia and dyscalculia. .
• Phonological processing skills play an essential role in the development of reading. For example, Bradley and Bryant (1983) found high correlations between preschool children’s initial rhyme awareness and their reading and spelling development over three years. This link held even after controlling for other variables, such as IQ and memory.  .
• Multiple research studies have linked difficulties in processing speed with ADHD and reading disorders. Stenneken et al. (2011) compared a group of high-achieving young adults with dyslexia to a matched group of typical readers. The dyslexic group showed a striking reduction in processing speed (26% compared to controls) while their working memory storage capacity was in the normal range. .
• Thirty-six 9‐year‐old children took a test of image persistence in visual sensory (iconic) memory and the Neale Analysis of Reading Ability. The reading test gives scores for fluency, accuracy, and comprehension. All three measures of reading performance were significantly related to icon persistence ( Riding & Pugh, 1977 ). .
• Kulp et al. (2002) investigated the relationship between visual memory and academics in 155 second- through fourth-grade children; Optometry and Vision Science  published the results. The researchers concluded that poor visual memory ability is significantly related to below-average reading decoding, math, and overall academic achievement as measured by the Stanford Achievement Test. .
• Research has confirmed that auditory recall plays a crucial role in literacy and directly impacts reading, spelling, writing, and math skills. Children with poor auditory memory skills may struggle to recognize sounds and match them to letters – a common symptom of a reading disability or dyslexia. Research by Plaza et al. (2002) found that dyslexic children exhibited a significant deficit in tasks involving auditory memory skills (digit span, unfamiliar word repetition, sentence repetition) compared with their age-mates. .
• Guthrie et al. (1972) investigated relationships between  visual sequential recall  and reading in 81 typical and 43 disabled readers. The researchers identified significant, positive associations between visual sequential memory and paragraph comprehension, oral reading, and word recognition. .
• Howes et al. (1999) compared 24 readers with auditory dyslexia and 21 with visual dyslexia to 90 control group participants. The researchers revealed auditory sequential memory impairments for both types of readers with dyslexia and multiple strengths for good readers. .
• Working memory is a cornerstone for learning of all kinds, from reading and note-taking to math calculations. Weiss and colleagues (2014) tested 52 musicians, 24 with dyslexia and 28 without dyslexia, and compared two groups’ performances on various auditory tests. On most auditory processing tests, the dyslexic musicians scored as well as their nondyslexic counterparts and even better than the general population. Where they performed much worse was on tests of auditory working memory. The dyslexic musicians with the poorest working memory tended to have the lowest reading accuracy. .
• A study by Bhat (2016) examined the contribution of six components of reasoning ability (inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning, linear reasoning, conditional reasoning, cause-and-effect reasoning, and analogical reasoning) to explain the variation in the academic achievement of 598 class 10th students. The predictive power of various components of reasoning ability for academic achievement was 31.5%. Out of the six dimensions of reasoning ability, the maximum involvement was reflected by deductive reasoning (with a reliability coefficient of .49), followed by cause and effect reasoning (.26), inductive reasoning (.16), linear reasoning (.05), conditional reasoning (.03) and analogical reasoning (.02) on academic achievement. .

Each cognitive skill plays a part in processing new information. That means if even one of these skills is weak, no matter what kind of information is coming one’s way, grasping, retaining, or using that information is impacted.

Most learning challenges are the result of weak cognitive skills. But more importantly, our core cognitive abilities are crucial to developing higher-order cognitive functions.

– Key to higher-order cognitive skills

Learning does not take place on a single level but is a stratified process. For example, one has to learn to count before it becomes possible to learn to add and subtract. Suppose one tried to teach a child who had not yet learned to count to add or subtract. That would be impossible, and no amount of effort would ever succeed in teaching the child to add and subtract. This shows that counting is a skill that needs to be mastered before it becomes possible to learn to do calculations. In the same way, core, lower-level cognitive abilities must be acquired first, before it becomes possible to master higher-order brain-based skills.

Higher-order cognitive skills  — also called  higher-order thinking skills  — are complex cognitive skills that go beyond basic observation of facts and memorization. They are what we are talking about when we want our students to be evaluative, creative, and innovative. According to Paul and Elder (2007), much of our thinking — left to itself — is biased, distorted, partial, uninformed, or downright prejudiced. Yet, the quality of our life and what we will produce, make, or build depends precisely on the quality of our thought.  Critical thinking  is the ability to think in an organized and rational manner to understand connections between ideas and facts. It helps you decide what to believe. In other words, it’s “thinking about thinking” — identifying, analyzing, and then fixing flaws in our thinking. Critical thinking is the foundation of a good education.

Bloom’s taxonomy is an educational model that describes the cognitive processes of learning and developing mastery of subjects. Named after Benjamin Bloom, head of a committee of researchers and educators, this model was developed in the 1950s and 60s. Bloom’s taxonomy and critical thinking go hand in hand. Bloom’s taxonomy takes students through a thought process of analyzing information or knowledge critically. The goal is to encourage higher-order thought in students by building up from lower-level cognitive abilities.

Below is an expanded version of the well-known Bloom’s taxonomy, in which we have included the core cognitive skills:

Edublox specializes in educational interventions that make children smarter, help them learn and read faster, and do math with ease. Our programs enable learners to overcome reading difficulties and other learning obstacles , assisting them to become  life-long learners  and empowering them to  realize their highest educational goals .

Edublox is grounded in pedagogical research and 30+ years of experience demonstrating that weak underlying cognitive skills account for most learning difficulties. Underlying cognitive skills include perception, attention, memory, and logical reasoning. Specific cognitive exercises can strengthen these weaknesses leading to increased performance in reading, spelling, writing, math, and learning.

• Edublox presented a one-week program in Singapore to 27 students, ages 10 to 12; the control group comprised 25 students. The results of the study showed a significant improvement in focused attention . .
• Results of a research study show that Edublox Online Tutor improves processing speed ; the auditory memory of the Edublox group also improved significantly according to the paired samples t-test. .
• A study by Mays (2014) found a significant improvement in visual memory – from 6.2 to 7.5 years following an intensive one-week Edublox program of 22.5 hours. .

Edublox Online Tutor has been optimized for children aged 7 to 13, is suitable for the gifted and less gifted, and can be used at home and school. Our programs are effective in alleviating a variety of symptoms associated with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. Book a free consultation to discuss you child’s learning needs. .

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• What Is Critical Thinking?...

What Is Critical Thinking? Definition and Examples

5 min read · Updated on September 25, 2024

Use critical thinking skills to move your career forward

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself why some people seem to be able to effortlessly resolve problems, lead a business, and make sound decisions? It could be down to their critical thinking skills. Critical thinking skills bring clarity, but not everyone has them. 

In this article, we're asking: what is critical thinking, exactly, and how can it help my career?

What is critical thinking?

Let's begin with a critical thinking definition. According to Merriam-Webster , critical thinking is the act of thinking critically in order to solve problems, evaluate information, and discern biases. Critical thinking skills are generally considered to be a high-level reasoning attribute required to get ahead in any sector. 

So, what is a critical thinker? We'd consider a critical thinker to be someone who is open-minded, questioning, and willing to look at things from different points of view in order to arrive at a logical conclusion. 

Why are critical thinking skills important to a career?

Critical thinkers have a lot to offer in the workplace and can be highly valued employees. The ability to think critically means that they're likely to make better decisions, feel more confident and empowered, and take an informed approach to problem-solving. Clearly, these are all desirable traits and ones possessed by successful senior leaders . 

If you can develop and demonstrate strong critical thinking skills, you'll be positioning yourself for career success. As a bonus, critical thinking skills are transferable, meaning that you'll be able to use them to propel your career in any industry. 

Examples of critical thinking skills

Critical thinking skills come in all shapes and sizes, so let's take a look at the most common.

Critical thinkers don't just take information at face value. They dive deep, analyzing and evaluating information, data, and statistics in order to draw a fully informed conclusion. 

Logic and reasoning are key for critical thinkers. They're driven by facts rather than emotion and make decisions based on careful consideration of all options. 

Problem-solving

Problem-solving is where critical thinkers excel. They're able to resolve complex challenges by going beyond the obvious, taking various sources into consideration, and showing a willingness to consider different ideas. 

Listening and open-mindedness

Active listening is a necessary skill for critical thinkers. Rather than relying solely on their own instincts and judgments, critical thinkers take input from multiple people and places and give fair weight to each. 

Managing ambiguity

As they're open to new ideas and information and use logic and analysis to solve problems, critical thinkers are well-equipped to manage and navigate through ambiguity to develop realistic solutions. 

Examples of using critical thinking in the workplace 

Let's look now at some examples of how those critical thinking skills can be applied practically in the workplace. 

Resolving conflict

A leader with good critical thinking skills will evaluate both sides in any workforce disagreement, forging a path to the truth and developing solutions acceptable to all parties. 

Providing feedback

In situations such as performance appraisal or mentoring, critical thinking is necessary to evaluate strengths and weaknesses and to provide constructive feedback.

Allocating resources

When projects or teams are competing for the same people or assets, critical thinking is required to evaluate, prioritize, and resolve the situation. 

Planning future strategy

Business leaders are never content to roll with the status quo. Driving a business forward requires constant re-evaluation, input, and analysis. The critical thinker will use all the information at their disposal to resolve existing issues and plan strategies that will put the business in a strong position in the future. 

Ways to improve your critical thinking skills

While some people seem to be natural critical thinkers, it is possible to develop this skill with time and effort. Try some of these techniques to build your own critical thinking abilities: 

Ask questions to gather information 

Don't accept information at face value 

Analyze arguments and evidence before making decisions

Seek multiple perspectives

Be aware of biases – your own and those of others 

Participate in discussions and read widely

Show off your critical thinking skills on your resume

In this article, we've provided a definition of critical thinking, showing why critical thinking skills are valued in the workplace and looking at some practical examples. Does your resume reflect these skills , though? Use your resume to show how you can solve business problems, accommodate different perspectives, and account for biases, and you'll soon be rocketing up that career ladder. 

Do you need a new perspective on your resume? The experts at TopResume are waiting to give you constructive feedback. Send yours in now for a free resume review to ensure you're capturing the skills needed for your next step. 

Recommended reading: 

7 Best Personal Skills for Your Resume (With Examples)

Five Steps To Create a Problem-Solving Process (Plus Tips!)

Hard Skills Explained (and the Top 8 for Your Resume)

Related Articles:

From Bland to Beautiful: How We Made This Professional's Resume Shine

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17 Best Skills to Put on Your Resume (with Examples)

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Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning

• Critical Thinking and other Higher-Order Thinking Skills

Critical thinking is a higher-order thinking skill. Higher-order thinking skills go beyond basic observation of facts and memorization. They are what we are talking about when we want our students to be evaluative, creative and innovative.

When most people think of critical thinking, they think that their words (or the words of others) are supposed to get “criticized” and torn apart in argument, when in fact all it means is that they are criteria-based. These criteria require that we distinguish fact from fiction; synthesize and evaluate information; and clearly communicate, solve problems and discover truths.

Why is Critical Thinking important in teaching?

According to Paul and Elder (2007), “Much of our thinking, left to itself, is biased, distorted, partial, uninformed or down-right prejudiced.  Yet the quality of our life and that of which we produce, make, or build depends precisely on the quality of our thought.”  Critical thinking is therefore the foundation of a strong education.

Using Bloom’s Taxonomy of thinking skills, the goal is to move students from lower- to higher-order thinking:

• from knowledge (information gathering) to comprehension (confirming)
• from application (making use of knowledge) to analysis (taking information apart)
• from evaluation (judging the outcome) to synthesis (putting information together) and creative generation

This provides students with the skills and motivation to become innovative producers of goods, services, and ideas.  This does not have to be a linear process but can move back and forth, and skip steps.

How do I incorporate critical thinking into my course?

The place to begin, and most obvious space to embed critical thinking in a syllabus, is with student-learning objectives/outcomes.  A well-designed course aligns everything else—all the activities, assignments, and assessments—with those core learning outcomes.

Learning outcomes contain an action (verb) and an object (noun), and often start with, “Student’s will....” Bloom’s taxonomy can help you to choose appropriate verbs to clearly state what you want students to exit the course doing, and at what level.

• Students will define the principle components of the water cycle. (This is an example of a lower-order thinking skill.)
• Students will evaluate how increased/decreased global temperatures will affect the components of the water cycle. (This is an example of a higher-order thinking skill.)

Both of the above examples are about the water cycle and both require the foundational knowledge that form the “facts” of what makes up the water cycle, but the second objective goes beyond facts to an actual understanding, application and evaluation of the water cycle.

Using a tool such as Bloom’s Taxonomy to set learning outcomes helps to prevent vague, non-evaluative expectations. It forces us to think about what we mean when we say, “Students will learn…”  What is learning; how do we know they are learning?

The Best Resources For Helping Teachers Use Bloom’s Taxonomy In The Classroom by Larry Ferlazzo

Consider designing class activities, assignments, and assessments—as well as student-learning outcomes—using Bloom’s Taxonomy as a guide.

The Socratic style of questioning encourages critical thinking.  Socratic questioning  “is systematic method of disciplined questioning that can be used to explore complex ideas, to get to the truth of things, to open up issues and problems, to uncover assumptions, to analyze concepts, to distinguish what we know from what we don’t know, and to follow out logical implications of thought” (Paul and Elder 2007).

Socratic questioning is most frequently employed in the form of scheduled discussions about assigned material, but it can be used on a daily basis by incorporating the questioning process into your daily interactions with students.

In teaching, Paul and Elder (2007) give at least two fundamental purposes to Socratic questioning:

• To deeply explore student thinking, helping students begin to distinguish what they do and do not know or understand, and to develop intellectual humility in the process
• To foster students’ abilities to ask probing questions, helping students acquire the powerful tools of dialog, so that they can use these tools in everyday life (in questioning themselves and others)

How do I assess the development of critical thinking in my students?

If the course is carefully designed around student-learning outcomes, and some of those outcomes have a strong critical-thinking component, then final assessment of your students’ success at achieving the outcomes will be evidence of their ability to think critically.  Thus, a multiple-choice exam might suffice to assess lower-order levels of “knowing,” while a project or demonstration might be required to evaluate synthesis of knowledge or creation of new understanding.

Critical thinking is not an “add on,” but an integral part of a course.

• Make critical thinking deliberate and intentional in your courses—have it in mind as you design or redesign all facets of the course
• Many students are unfamiliar with this approach and are more comfortable with a simple quest for correct answers, so take some class time to talk with students about the need to think critically and creatively in your course; identify what critical thinking entail, what it looks like, and how it will be assessed.

Additional Resources

• Barell, John. Teaching for Thoughtfulness: Classroom Strategies to Enhance Intellectual Development . Longman, 1991.
• Brookfield, Stephen D. Teaching for Critical Thinking: Tools and Techniques to Help Students Question Their Assumptions . Jossey-Bass, 2012.
• Elder, Linda and Richard Paul. 30 Days to Better Thinking and Better Living through Critical Thinking . FT Press, 2012.
• Fasko, Jr., Daniel, ed. Critical Thinking and Reasoning: Current Research, Theory, and Practice . Hampton Press, 2003.
• Fisher, Alec. Critical Thinking: An Introduction . Cambridge University Press, 2011.
• Paul, Richard and Linda Elder. Critical Thinking: Learn the Tools the Best Thinkers Use . Pearson Prentice Hall, 2006.
• Faculty Focus article, A Syllabus Tip: Embed Big Questions
• The Critical Thinking Community
• The Critical Thinking Community’s The Thinker’s Guides Series and The Art of Socratic Questioning

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Cognitive Bias Is the Loose Screw in Critical Thinking

Recognizing your biases enhances understanding and communication..

Posted May 17, 2021 | Reviewed by Jessica Schrader

• People cannot think critically unless they are aware of their cognitive biases, which can alter their perception of reality.
• Cognitive biases are mental shortcuts people take in order to process the mass of information they receive daily.
• Cognitive biases include confirmation bias, anchoring bias, bandwagon effect, and negativity bias.

When I was a kid, I was enamored of cigarette-smoking movie stars. When I was a teenager , some of my friends began to smoke; I wanted to smoke too, but my parents forbid it. I was also intimidated by the ubiquitous anti-smoking commercials I saw on television warning me that smoking causes cancer. As much as I wanted to smoke, I was afraid of it.

When I started college as a pre-med major, I also started working in a hospital emergency room. I was shocked to see that more than 90% of the nurses working there were smokers, but that was not quite enough to convince me that smoking was OK. It was the doctors: 11 of the 12 emergency room physicians I worked with were smokers. That was all the convincing I needed. If actual medical doctors thought smoking was safe, then so did I. I started smoking without concern because I had fallen prey to an authority bias , which is a type of cognitive bias. Fortunately for my health, I wised up and quit smoking 10 years later.

It's Likely You're Unaware of These Habits

Have you ever thought someone was intelligent simply because they were attractive? Have you ever dismissed a news story because it ran in a media source you didn’t like? Have you ever thought or said, “I knew that was going to happen!” in reference to a team winning, a stock going up in value, or some other unpredictable event occurring? If you replied "yes” to any of these, then you may be guilty of relying on a cognitive bias.

In my last post, I wrote about the importance of critical thinking, and how in today’s information age, no one has an excuse for living in ignorance. Since then, I recalled a huge impediment to critical thinking: cognitive bias. We are all culpable of leaning on these mental crutches, even though we don’t do it intentionally.

What Are Cognitive Biases?

The Cambridge English Dictionary defines cognitive bias as the way a particular person understands events, facts, and other people, which is based on their own particular set of beliefs and experiences and may not be reasonable or accurate.

PhilosophyTerms.com calls it a bad mental habit that gets in the way of logical thinking.

PositivePsychology.com describes it this way: “We are often presented with situations in life when we need to make a decision with imperfect information, and we unknowingly rely on prejudices or biases.”

And, according to Alleydog.com, a cognitive bias is an involuntary pattern of thinking that produces distorted perceptions of people, surroundings, and situations around us.

In brief, a cognitive bias is a shortcut to thinking. And, it’s completely understandable; the onslaught of information that we are exposed to every day necessitates some kind of time-saving method. It is simply impossible to process everything, so we make quick decisions. Most people don’t have the time to thoroughly think through everything they are told. Nevertheless, as understandable as depending on biases may be, it is still a severe deterrent to critical thinking.

Here's What to Watch Out For

Wikipedia lists 197 different cognitive biases. I am going to share with you a few of the more common ones so that in the future, you will be aware of the ones you may be using.

Confirmation bias is when you prefer to attend media and information sources that are in alignment with your current beliefs. People do this because it helps maintain their confidence and self-esteem when the information they receive supports their knowledge set. Exposing oneself to opposing views and opinions can cause cognitive dissonance and mental stress . On the other hand, exposing yourself to new information and different viewpoints helps open up new neural pathways in your brain, which will enable you to think more creatively (see my post: Surprise: Creativity Is a Skill, Not a Gift! ).

Anchoring bias occurs when you become committed or attached to the first thing you learn about a particular subject. A first impression of something or someone is a good example (see my post: Sometimes You Have to Rip the Cover Off ). Similar to anchoring is the halo effect , which is when you assume that a person’s positive or negative traits in one area will be the same in some other aspect of their personality . For example, you might think that an attractive person will also be intelligent without seeing any proof to support it.

Hindsight bias is the inclination to see some events as more predictable than they are; also known as the “I knew it all along" reaction. Examples of this bias would be believing that you knew who was going to win an election, a football or baseball game, or even a coin toss after it occurred.

Misinformation effect is when your memories of an event can become affected or influenced by information you received after the event occurred. Researchers have proven that memory is inaccurate because it is vulnerable to revision when you receive new information.

Actor-observer bias is when you attribute your actions to external influences and other people's actions to internal ones. You might think you missed a business opportunity because your car broke down, but your colleague failed to get a promotion because of incompetence.

False consensus effect is when you assume more people agree with your opinions and share your values than actually do. This happens because you tend to spend most of your time with others, such as family and friends, who actually do share beliefs similar to yours.

Availability bias occurs when you believe the information you possess is more important than it actually is. This happens when you watch or listen to media news sources that tend to run dramatic stories without sharing any balancing statistics on how rare such events may be. For example, if you see several stories on fiery plane crashes, you might start to fear flying because you assume they occur with greater frequency than they actually do.

Bandwagon effect, also known as herd mentality or groupthink , is the propensity to accept beliefs or values because many other people also hold them as well. This is a conformity bias that occurs because most people desire acceptance, connection, and belonging with others, and fear rejection if they hold opposing beliefs. Most people will not think through an opinion and will assume it is correct because so many others agree with it.

Authority bias is when you accept the opinion of an authority figure because you believe they know more than you. You might assume that they have already thought through an issue and made the right conclusion. And, because they are an authority in their field, you grant more credibility to their viewpoint than you would for anyone else. This is especially true in medicine where experts are frequently seen as infallible. An example would be an advertiser showing a doctor, wearing a lab coat, touting their product.

Negativity bias is when you pay more attention to bad news than good. This is a natural bias that dates back to humanity’s prehistoric days when noticing threats, risks, and other lethal dangers could save your life. In today’s civilized world, this bias is not as necessary (see my post Fear: Lifesaver or Manipulator ).

Illusion of control is the belief that you have more control over a situation than you actually do. An example of this is when a gambler believes he or she can influence a game of chance.

Understand More and Communicate Better

Learning these biases, and being on the alert for them when you make a decision to accept a belief or opinion, will help you become more effective at critical thinking.

Robert Wilson is a writer and humorist based in Atlanta, Georgia.

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The Best Interview Questions for Assessing Critical Thinking

Employers seek individuals who can analyze complex problems, make informed decisions, and navigate challenges with creativity and logic. Assessing a candidate's critical thinking abilities during the interview process is crucial to ensure they can contribute effectively to your organization's success. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best interview questions for evaluating critical thinking, what to look for in candidate responses, and tips for effectively assessing this vital skill during hiring.

Critical Thinking Interview Questions

• Can you describe a challenging problem you faced at work and how you approached solving it?
• Tell me about a time when you had to analyze information from multiple sources to make a decision.
• How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple deadlines to meet?
• Give an example of a situation where you identified a significant error or inefficiency in a process. What did you do about it?
• Describe a time when you had to think outside the box to achieve a goal.
• How do you handle situations where you don't have all the information you need to make a decision?
• Can you provide an example of how you evaluated the pros and cons of different solutions to a problem?
• Tell me about a time when you had to change your approach to a project based on new information or feedback.
• How do you ensure that your decisions are objective and free from personal bias?
• Describe a scenario where you had to persuade others to adopt your viewpoint or solution.

What to Look for in Answers

Problem-Solving Approach : Look for a clear, logical process the candidate used to address the issue. They should demonstrate methodical thinking and the ability to break down complex problems into manageable parts.

Analytical Skills : Candidates should show they can assess information critically, identify key factors, and evaluate different aspects before reaching a conclusion.

Creativity and Innovation : Effective critical thinkers often think outside the box. Look for examples where candidates proposed unique or unconventional solutions.

Decision-Making Ability : Assess how candidates weigh options, consider consequences, and make informed decisions based on available data.

Adaptability : Candidates should demonstrate flexibility in their thinking and the ability to adjust their strategies when faced with new information or changing circumstances.

Communication Skills : Strong critical thinkers can articulate their thought processes clearly and persuasively, making it easy for others to understand their reasoning.

Evidence of Bias Awareness : Look for indications that candidates are aware of their own biases and take steps to ensure their decisions are objective and fair.

Tips for Evaluating Critical Thinking During the Hiring Process

Use Behavioral Questions Behavioral interview questions, which ask candidates to describe past experiences, are effective for uncovering how they've demonstrated critical thinking in real situations. These questions encourage candidates to provide concrete examples that reveal their problem-solving and analytical skills.

Assess Problem-Solving Skills Incorporate problem-solving scenarios or case studies into the interview process. Observe how candidates approach these challenges, the methods they use to analyze information, and the solutions they propose. This hands-on approach provides valuable insights into their critical thinking abilities.

Listen for Logical Reasoning Pay attention to how candidates structure their responses. Effective critical thinkers present their ideas in a logical, coherent manner, showing clear connections between their thoughts and actions. Look for a step-by-step reasoning process in their answers.

Evaluate Their Ability to Reflect Candidates who engage in self-reflection demonstrate a high level of critical thinking. They can assess their own performance, recognize mistakes, and learn from their experiences. Ask follow-up questions to gauge their level of self-awareness and willingness to grow.

Look for Curiosity and Inquisitiveness Individuals with strong critical thinking skills often display a natural curiosity and a desire to understand how things work. Assess their willingness to ask questions, seek out information, and explore different perspectives during the interview.

Involve Multiple Interviewers Having several interviewers assess a candidate can provide a more balanced evaluation of their critical thinking skills. Different perspectives can help identify strengths and weaknesses that a single interviewer might miss.

Provide Time for Thoughtful Responses Allow candidates time to think through their answers rather than expecting immediate responses. This approach encourages more thoughtful, well-considered answers that better showcase their critical thinking capabilities.

Assessing critical thinking during the interview process is essential for identifying candidates who can navigate complex challenges, make informed decisions, and drive your organization forward. By incorporating thoughtfully crafted interview questions, understanding what to look for in responses, and applying effective evaluation techniques, you can accurately gauge a candidate's critical thinking abilities. Investing time in this aspect of the hiring process ensures you select individuals who not only fit the role but also contribute to a culture of innovation and excellence within your team.

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13 Easy Steps To Improve Your Critical Thinking Skills

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With the sheer volume of information that we’re bombarded with on a daily basis – and with the pervasiveness of fake news and social media bubbles – the ability to look at evidence, evaluate the trustworthiness of a source, and think critically is becoming more important than ever. This is why, for me, critical thinking is one of the most vital skills to cultivate for future success.

Critical thinking isn’t about being constantly negative or critical of everything. It’s about objectivity and having an open, inquisitive mind. To think critically is to analyze issues based on hard evidence (as opposed to personal opinions, biases, etc.) in order to build a thorough understanding of what’s really going on. And from this place of thorough understanding, you can make better decisions and solve problems more effectively.

To put it another way, critical thinking means arriving at your own carefully considered conclusions instead of taking information at face value. Here are 13 ways you can cultivate this precious skill:

1. Always vet new information with a cautious eye. Whether it’s an article someone has shared online or data that’s related to your job, always vet the information you're presented with. Good questions to ask here include, "Is this information complete and up to date?” “What evidence is being presented to support the argument?” and “Whose voice is missing here?”

2. Look at where the information has come from. Is the source trustworthy? What is their motivation for presenting this information? For example, are they trying to sell you something or get you to take a certain action (like vote for them)?

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3. Consider more than one point of view. Everyone has their own opinions and motivations – even highly intelligent people making reasonable-sounding arguments have personal opinions and biases that shape their thinking. So, when someone presents you with information, consider whether there are other sides to the story.

4. Practice active listening. Listen carefully to what others are telling you, and try to build a clear picture of their perspective. Empathy is a really useful skill here since putting yourself in another person's shoes can help you understand where they're coming from and what they might want. Try to listen without judgment – remember, critical thinking is about keeping an open mind.

5. Gather additional information where needed. Whenever you identify gaps in the information or data, do your own research to fill those gaps. The next few steps will help you do this objectively…

6. Ask lots of open-ended questions. Curiosity is a key trait of critical thinkers, so channel your inner child and ask lots of "who," "what," and "why" questions.

7. Find your own reputable sources of information, such as established news sites, nonprofit organizations, and education institutes. Try to avoid anonymous sources or sources with an ax to grind or a product to sell. Also, be sure to check when the information was published. An older source may be unintentionally offering up wrong information just because events have moved on since it was published; corroborate the info with a more recent source.

8. Try not to get your news from social media. And if you do see something on social media that grabs your interest, check the accuracy of the story (via reputable sources of information, as above) before you share it.

9. Learn to spot fake news. It's not always easy to spot false or misleading content, but a good rule of thumb is to look at the language, emotion, and tone of the piece. Is it using emotionally charged language, for instance, and trying to get you to feel a certain way? Also, look at the sources of facts, figures, images, and quotes. A legit news story will clearly state its sources.

10. Learn to spot biased information. Like fake news, biased information may seek to appeal more to your emotions than logic and/or present a limited view of the topic. So ask yourself, “Is there more to this topic than what’s being presented here?” Do your own reading around the topic to establish the full picture.

11. Question your own biases, too. Everyone has biases, and there’s no point pretending otherwise. The trick is to think objectively about your likes and dislikes, preferences, and beliefs, and consider how these might affect your thinking.

12. Form your own opinions. Remember, critical thinking is about thinking independently. So once you’ve assessed all the information, form your own conclusions about it.

13. Continue to work on your critical thinking skills. I recommend looking at online learning platforms such as Udemy and Coursera for courses on general critical thinking skills, as well as courses on specific subjects like cognitive biases.

Read more about critical thinking and other essential skills in my new book, Future Skills: The 20 Skills & Competencies Everyone Needs To Succeed In A Digital World . Written for anyone who wants to surf the wave of digital transformation – rather than be drowned by it – the book explores why these vital future skills matter and how to develop them.

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