Critical Thinking – Quick Guide
1.
To think critically:
Is to examine ideas, evaluate them against what you already know and make
decisions about their merit.
2.
When you think critically you:
Challenge information you are given in a constructive manner (within the limits of
your expected knowledge).
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3.
Actively seek all sides of an argument.
Test the soundness of the claims made.
Test the soundness of the evidence used to support the claims.
Weigh up evidence – for and against
Stand back – identify bias
Examine from different perspectives
Check accuracy
Check logic
Identify flaws in reasoning
Ask questions/problematise
Critical thinking:
Is central to being an “independent learner”. You show you are an independent
learner when you analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a variety of
sources and present your own justified interpretation.
4.
Thinking Critically:
Helps you create strong arguments of your own. You will be able to justify any
claims you make based on the evidence you have evaluated.
5.
The aim of critical thinking:
Is to try to maintain an “objective” position”. This means that you should try to be
aware of any preconceptions you have that might be skewing the way you think
about an argument.
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When you approach a question – split the question into bite
size chunks.
Structure your writing by using context and examples, use
themes and remember to link and signpost.
Less is more: use your critical thinking skills to select the
most appropriate content rather than putting in everything you
have read on the topic.
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