What is Critical Thinking?

Critical thinking is the deliberate analysis of information to make better judgments and decisions, using logic, reasoning, and creativity. It's a broad skill applicable to various situations, from job interviews to purchasing decisions.

While humans are constantly thinking, not all thoughts are critical thinking. Critical thinking is an intentional, conscious process used for difficult problems or important decisions, as thinking critically all the time would be exhausting.

To become a better critical thinker, it's crucial to ask questions when faced with a problem or decision. Start with basic questions like, 'What do I currently know?' and 'How do I know this?' to gain a clearer understanding.

When evaluating online information, such as a news article shared on social media, critical thinking involves analyzing the source, considering if the headline is misleading, and understanding potential biases behind why it was shared. This allows you to conclude whether the article is trustworthy.

Critical thinking has many real-world applications, helping individuals make better decisions, become more desirable employees, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.