20 Habits of Mind
The habits of mind required for critical thinking may be articulated in different ways. The
characterization offered below captures most of the intellectual virtues important in thinking critically.
Thinking for one’s self

Inquiring mind (curious): Does not take everything at face value—is inclined to inquire into
matters and to explore unanswered questions.

Critically minded: Is willing to evaluate information when it is important to do so.

Open-minded: Is open to views other than one's own, especially to contrary positions.

Fair-minded: Will judge ideas on their merits and not simply enforce personal interests and bias.

Independent-minded: Resists the pressures to adopt and espouse opinions merely because they
are popular.

Persistence/Perseverance: Persists in thinking through problems in a thorough and careful manner.

Circumspect: Is tentative in one's belief until there is sufficient evidence to warrant a more
definitive position.

Empathic: Is able to empathize with those in situations different from one’s own and in
different historical contexts.

Consultative: Is inclined to seek several sources of information, solicit expert opinion and
confer with others.

Attentive to detail: Is careful in attending to detail.

Flexible: Is willing to change tactics or approach.

Managing Impulsivity: Is able to think before acting. Consider alternatives and consequences
of several possible actions prior to taking action

Taking Responsible Risks: Is able to view setbacks as interesting and challenging. Sees
setbacks as a means to set goals for improvement. Draws on past knowledge and know that all
risks are not worth taking.

Intellectual Courage: Has the willingness to fairly assess ideas, beliefs, or viewpoints which
others have not given serious consideration.

Humility: Suspending judgment. Aware of the limits of one’s own knowledge and recognizes
no one should claim to know more than they know.
© 2000 Roland Case
The Critical Thinking Consortium

Intellectual Integrity: Is true to one’s own thinking and is consistent in the intellectual
standards they apply.

Thinking About Our Thinking: Is able to reflect on and evaluate the quality of one’s own
thinking skills and strategies. Is aware of one’s own actions and the effect of those actions on
self, others and the environment.

Learning Continuously: Are in a continuous learning mode. Welcomes new learning and
experiences. Demonstrates intellectual curiosity.
Thinking with others

Respectful: Is willing to engage respectfully in discussion with others.

Constructive: Is willing to take and give constructive feedback.

Inclusive: Seeks to include all participants.

Accommodating: Is willing to compromise and to adjust thinking and behaviour to the
situation.
© 2000 Roland Case
The Critical Thinking Consortium