critical thinking essays examples

How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay: Examples & Outline

Critical thinking is the process of evaluating and analyzing information. People who use it in everyday life are open to different opinions. They rely on reason and logic when making conclusions about certain issues.

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A critical thinking essay shows how your thoughts change as you research your topic. This type of assignment encourages you to learn rather than prove what you already know. In this article, our custom writing team will:

explain how to write an excellent critical essay;
introduce 30 great essay topics;
provide a critical thinking essay example in MLA format.
🤔 Critical Thinking Essay Definition
💡 Topics & Questions
✅ Step-by-Step Guide
📑 Essay Example & Formatting Tips
✍️ Bonus Tips

🔍 References

🤔 what is a critical thinking essay.

A critical thinking essay is a paper that analyses an issue and reflects on it in order to develop an action plan. Unlike other essay types, it starts with a question instead of a thesis. It helps you develop a broader perspective on a specific issue. Critical writing aims at improving your analytical skills and encourages asking questions.

The picture shows the functions of critical thinking in writing.

Critical Thinking in Writing: Importance

When we talk about critical thinking and writing, the word “critical” doesn’t have any negative connotation. It simply implies thorough investigation, evaluation, and analysis of information. Critical thinking allows students to make objective conclusions and present their ideas logically. It also helps them avoid errors in reasoning.

The Basics: 8 Steps of Critical Thinking Psychology

Did you know that the critical thinking process consists of 8 steps? We’ve listed them below. You can try to implement them in your everyday life:

It’s possible that fallacies will occur during the process of critical thinking. Fallacies are errors in reasoning that fail to provide a reasonable conclusion. Here are some common types of fallacies:

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Generalization . It happens when you apply generally factual statements to a specific case.
Ambiguity . It occurs when the arguments are not clear and are not supported by evidence.
Appeal to authority . This mistake happens when you claim the statement is valid only because a respected person made it.
Appeal to emotion . It occurs when you use highly emotive language to convince the audience. Try to stay sensible and rely on the evidence.
Bifurcation . This mistake occurs when you choose only between two alternatives when more than two exist.
False analogy . It happens when the examples are poorly connected.

If you want to avoid these mistakes, do the following:

try not to draw conclusions too quickly,
be attentive,
carefully read through all the sources,
avoid generalizations.

How to Demonstrate Your Critical Thinking in Writing

Critical thinking encourages you to go beyond what you know and study new perspectives. When it comes to demonstrating your critical thinking skills in writing, you can try these strategies:

Read . Before you start writing an essay, read everything you can find on the subject you are about to cover. Focus on the critical points of your assignment.
Research . Look up several scholarly sources and study the information in-depth.
Evaluate . Analyze the sources and the information you’ve gathered. See whether you can disagree with the authors.
Prove . Explain why you agree or disagree with the authors’ conclusions. Back it up with evidence.

According to Purdue University, logical essay writing is essential when you deal with academic essays. It helps you demonstrate and prove the arguments. Make sure that your paper reaches a logical conclusion.

There are several main concepts related to logic:

If you want your essay to be logical, it’s better to avoid syllogistic fallacies, which happen with certain invalid deductions. If syllogisms are used carelessly, they can lead to false statements and ruin the credibility of your paper.

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💡 Critical Thinking Topics & Questions

An excellent critical thinking essay starts with a question. But how do you formulate it properly? Keep reading to find out.

How to Write Critical Thinking Questions: Examples with Answers

Asking the right questions is at the core of critical thinking. They challenge our beliefs and encourage our interest to learn more.

Here are some examples of model questions that prompt critical thinking:

What does… mean?
What would happen if…?
What are the principles of…?
Why is… important?
How does… affect…?
What do you think causes…?
How are… and… similar/different?
How do you explain….?
What are the implications of…?
What do we already know about…?

Now, let’s look at some critical thinking questions with the answers. You can use these as a model for your own questions:

Question: What would happen if people with higher income paid more taxes?

Answer: It would help society to prosper and function better. It would also help people out of poverty. This way, everyone can contribute to the economy.

Question: How does eating healthy benefit you?

Answer: Healthy eating affects people’s lives in many positive ways. It reduces cancer risk, improves your mood and memory, helps with weight loss and diabetes management, and improves your night sleep.

Critical Thinking Essay Topics

Have you already decided what your essay will be about? If not, feel free to use these essay topic examples as titles for your paper or as inspiration. Make sure to choose a theme that interests you personally:

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What are the reasons for racism in healthcare ?
Why is accepting your appearance important?
Concepts of critical thinking and logical reasoning .
Nature and spirit in Ralf Waldo Emerson ’s poetry.
How does technological development affect communication in the modern world?
Social media effect on adolescents.
Is the representation of children in popular fiction accurate?
Domestic violence and its consequences.
Why is mutual aid important in society?
How do stereotypes affect the way people think?
The concept of happiness in different cultures.
The purpose of environmental art .
Why do people have the need to be praised ?
How did antibiotics change medicine and its development?
Is there a way to combat inequality in sports ?
Is gun control an effective way of crime prevention?
How our understanding of love changes through time.
The use of social media by the older generation.
Graffiti as a form of modern art .
Negative health effects of high sugar consumption.
Why are reality TV shows so popular?
Why should we eat healthily ?
How effective and fair is the US judicial system ?
Reasons of Cirque du Soleil phenomenon.
How can police brutality be stopped?
Freedom of speech : does it exist?
The effects of vaccination misconceptions .
How to eliminate New Brunswick’s demographic deficit: action plan .
What makes a good movie ?
Critical analysis of your favorite book.
The connection between fashion and identity .
Taboo topics and how they are discussed in gothic literature .
Critical thinking essay on the problem of overpopulation .
Does our lifestyle affect our mental health ?
The role of self-esteem in preventing eating disorders in children .
Drug abuse among teenagers.
Rhetoric on assisted suicide .
Effects of violent video games on children’s mental health.
Analyze the effect stress has on the productivity of a team member.
Discuss the importance of the environmental studies .
Critical thinking and ethics of happy life.
The effects of human dignity on the promotion of justice.
Examine the ethics of advertising the tobacco industry.
Reasons and possible solutions of research misconduct.
Implication of parental deployment for children.
Cultural impact of superheroes on the US culture.
Examine the positive and negative impact of technology on modern society.
Critical thinking in literature: examples.
Analyze the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on economic transformation.
Benefits and drawbacks of mandatory vaccination .

Haven’t found a suitable essay idea? Try using our topic generator !

✅ How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay Step by Step

Now, let’s focus on planning and writing your critical thinking essay. In this section, you will find an essay outline, examples of thesis statements, and a brief overview of each essay part.

Critical Thinking Essay Outline

In a critical thinking essay, there are two main things to consider: a premise and a conclusion :

A premise is a statement in the argument that explains the reason or supports a conclusion.
A conclusion indicates what the argument is trying to prove. Each argument can have only one conclusion.

When it comes to structuring, a critical thinking essay is very similar to any other type of essay. Before you start writing it, make sure you know what to include in it. An outline is very helpful when it comes to structuring a paper.

The picture enumerates the main parts of a critical essay outline: introduction, main body, conclusion.

How to Start a Critical Essay Introduction

An introduction gives readers a general idea of an essay’s contents. When you work on the introduction, imagine that you are drawing a map for the reader. It not only marks the final destination but also explains the route.

An introduction usually has 4 functions:

It catches the reader’s attention;
It states the essay’s main argument;
It provides some general information about the topic;
It shows the importance of the issue in question.

Here are some strategies that can make the introduction writing easier:

Give an overview of the essay’s topic.
Express the main idea.
Define the main terms.
Outline the issues that you are going to explore or argue about.
Explain the methodology and why you used it.
Write a hook to attract the reader’s attention.

Critical Analysis Thesis Statement & Examples

A thesis statement is an integral part of every essay. It keeps the paper organized and guides both the reader and the writer. A good thesis:

expresses the conclusion or position on a topic;
justifies your position or opinion with reasoning;
conveys one idea;
serves as the essay’s map.

To have a clearer understanding of what a good thesis is, let’s have a look at these examples.

The statement on the left is too general and doesn’t provide any reasoning. The one on the right narrows down the group of people to office workers and specifies the benefits of exercising.

Critical Thinking Essay Body Paragraphs: How to Write

Body paragraphs are the part of the essay where you discuss all the ideas and arguments. In a critical thinking essay, arguments are especially important. When you develop them, make sure that they:

reflect the key theme;
are supported by the sources/citations/examples.

Using counter-arguments is also effective. It shows that you acknowledge different points of view and are not easily persuaded.

In addition to your arguments, it’s essential to present the evidence . Demonstrate your critical thinking skills by analyzing each source and stating whether the author’s position is valid.

To make your essay logically flow, you may use transitions such as:

Accordingly,
For instance,
On the contrary,
In conclusion,
Not only… but also,
Undoubtedly.

How to Write a Critical Thinking Conclusion

In a critical thinking essay, the notion of “conclusion” is tightly connected to the one used in logic. A logical conclusion is a statement that specifies the author’s point of view or what the essay argues about. Each argument can have only one logical conclusion.

Sometimes they can be confused with premises. Remember that premises serve as a support for the conclusion. Unlike the conclusion, there can be several premises in a single argument. You can learn more about these concepts from the article on a logical consequence by Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.

Keeping this in mind, have a look at these tips for finishing your essay:

Briefly sum up the main points.
Provide a final thought on the issue.
Suggest some results or consequences.
Finish up with a call for action.

📑 Critical Thinking Essays Examples & Formatting Tips

Formatting is another crucial aspect of every formal paper. MLA and APA are two popular formats when it comes to academic writing. They share some similarities but overall are still two different styles. Here are critical essay format guidelines that you can use as a reference:

Finally, you’re welcome to check out a full critical essay sample in MLA format. Download the PDF file below:

Currently, the importance of critical thinking has grown rapidly because technological progress has led to expanded access to various content-making platforms: websites, online news agencies, and podcasts with, often, low-quality information. Fake news is used to achieve political and financial aims, targeting people with low news literacy. However, individuals can stop spreading fallacies by detecting false agendas with the help of a skeptical attitude.

✍️ Bonus Tips: Critical Thinking and Writing Exercises

Critical thinking is a process different from our regular thinking. When we think in everyday life, we do it automatically. However, when we’re thinking critically, we do it deliberately.

So how do we get better at this type of thinking and make it a habit? These useful tips will help you do it:

Ask basic questions. Sometimes, while we are doing research, the explanation becomes too complicated. To avoid it, always go back to your topic.
Question basic assumptions. When thinking through a problem, ask yourself whether your beliefs can be wrong. Keep an open mind while researching your question.
Think for yourself. Avoid getting carried away in the research and buying into other people’s opinions.
Reverse things. Sometimes it seems obvious that one thing causes another, but what if it’s the other way around?
Evaluate existing evidence. If you work with sources, it’s crucial to evaluate and question them.

Another way to improve your reasoning skills is to do critical thinking exercises. Here are some of them:

Thanks for reading through our article! We hope that you found it helpful and learned some new information. If you liked it, feel free to share it with your friends.

25 Critical Thinking Examples

critical thinking examples and definition, explained below

Critical thinking is the ability to analyze information and make reasoned decisions. It involves suspended judgment, open-mindedness, and clarity of thought.

It involves considering different viewpoints and weighing evidence carefully. It is essential for solving complex problems and making good decisions.

People who think critically are able to see the world in a more nuanced way and understand the interconnectedness of things. They are also better able to adapt to change and handle uncertainty.

In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to think critically is more important than ever and necessary for students and employees alike.

Critical Thinking Examples

1. identifying strengths and weaknesses.

Critical thinkers don’t just take things at face value. They stand back and contemplate the potential strengths and weaknesses of something and then make a decision after contemplation.

This helps you to avoid excessive bias and identify possible problems ahead of time.

For example, a boxer about to get in the ring will likely need to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of his opponent. He might learn that his opponent’s left hook is very strong, but his opponent also gets tired after the third round. With this knowledge, he can go into the bout with strong defenses in the first three rounds before going on the offense.

Here, the boxer’s critical thinking skills will help him win his match.

2. Creating a Hypothesis based on Limited Data

When scientists set out to test a new theory, they first need to develop a hypothesis. This is an educated guess about how things work, based on what is already known.

Once a hypothesis has been developed, experiments can be designed to test it.

However, sometimes scientists may find themselves working with limited data. In such cases, they may need to make some assumptions in order to form a hypothesis.

For example, if they are studying a phenomenon that occurs infrequently, they may need to extrapolate from the data they do have in order to form a hypothesis.

Here, the scientist is engaged in critical thinking: they use the limited data to come up with a tentative judgment.

3. Moderating a Debate

A debate moderator needs to have strong critical thinking skills. They need to use objective evaluations, analysis, and critique to keep the discussion on track and ensure that all sides are heard fairly.

This means being able to identify when a point has been made sufficiently, or when someone is beginning to veer off topic and being able to direct the conversation accordingly.

Similarly, they need to be able to assess each argument objectively and consider its merits, rather than getting caught up in the emotion of the debate. If someone is using an unfair point or one that is not factual, the moderator needs to be switched on and identify this.

By remaining calm and impartial, the moderator can help to ensure that a debate is productive and respectful.

4. Judging and Adjudicating

A judge or adjudicator needs to weigh the evidence and make a determination based on the facts.

This requires the adjudicator to be able to try to see both sides of an argument. They need the ability to see past personal biases and to critically evaluate the credibility of all sides.

In addition, judges and adjudicators must be able to think quickly and make sound decisions in the face of complex issues.

For example, if you were to be adjudicating the above debate, you need to hear both sides of the argument and then decide who won. It’s your job to evaluate, see strengths and weaknesses in arguments, and come to a conclusion.

5. Grading an Essay

Teachers need critical thinking skills when grading essays so that they can effectively assess the quality of the writing. By critically analyzing the essay, teachers can identify any errors or weaknesses in the argument.

Furthermore, they can also determine whether the essay meets the required standards for the assignment. Even a very well-written essay may deserve a lower grade if the essay doesn’t directly answer the essay question.

A teacher needs to be able to read an essay and understand not only what the student is trying to say, but also how well they are making their argument. Are they using evidence effectively? Are they drawing valid conclusions? A teacher needs to be able to evaluate an essay holistically in order to give a fair grade.

In order to properly evaluate an essay, teachers need to be able to think critically about the writing. Only then can they provide an accurate assessment of the work.

6. Active Reading

Active reading is a skill that requires the reader to be engaged with the text in order to fully understand it. This means not only being able to read the words on the page, but also being able to interpret the meaning behind them.

In order to do this, active readers need to have good critical thinking skills.

They need to be able to ask questions about the text and look for evidence to support their answers. Additionally, active readers need to be able to make connections between the text and their own experiences.

Active reading leads to better comprehension and retention of information.

7. Deciding Whether or Not to Believe Something

When trying to determine whether or not to believe something, you’re engaging in critical thinking.

For example, you might need to consider the source of the information. If the information comes from a reliable source, such as a reputable news organization or a trusted friend, then it is more likely to be accurate.

However, if the source is less reliable, such as an anonymous website or a person with a known bias, then the information should be viewed with more skepticism.

In addition, it is important to consider the evidence that is being presented. If the evidence is well-supported and logically presented, then it is more likely to be true. However, if the evidence is weak or relies on fallacious reasoning, then the claim is less likely to be true.

8. Determining the Best Solution to a Situation

Determining the best solution to a problem generally requires you to critique the different options. There are often many different factors to consider, and it can be difficult to know where to start.

However, there are some general guidelines that can help to make the process a little easier.

For example, if you have a few possible solutions to the problem, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of each one. Consider both the short-term and long-term effects of each option before making a decision.

Furthermore, it is important to be aware of your own biases. Be sure to consider all of the options objectively, without letting your personal preferences get in the way.

9. Giving Formative Feedback

Formative feedback is feedback that you give to someone part-way through a learning experience. To do this, you need to think critically.

For example, one thing you need to do is see where the student’s strengths and weaknesses like. Perhaps the student is doing extremely well at a task, so your feedback might be that they should try to extend themselves by adding more complexity to the task.

Or, perhaps the student is struggling, so you suggest to them that they approach the learning experience from a different angle.

10. Giving Summative Feedback

Summative feedback occurs at the end of a learning scenario. For example, the written feedback at the end of an essay or on a report card is summative.

When providing summative feedback, it is important to take a step back and consider the situation from multiple perspectives. What are areas for improvement and where exactly might the student have missed some key points? How could the student have done better?

Asking yourself these questions is all part of the process of giving feedback, and they can all be considered examples of critical thinking. You’re literally critiquing the student’s work and identifying opportunities for improvement.

11. Evaluating Evidence

When evaluating evidence, critical thinkers take a step back and look at the bigger picture. They consider all of the available information and weigh it up. They look at logical flaws, the reliability of the evidence, and its validity.

This process allows them to arrive at a conclusion that is based on sound reasoning, rather than emotion or personal bias.

For example, when a social scientist looks at the evidence from his study, he needs to evaluate whether the data was corrupted and ensure the methodology was sound in order to determine if the evidence is valuable or not.

12. Media Literacy

Media literacy seems to be in short supply these days. Too many people take information off the internet or television and just assume it is true.

A person with media literacy, however, will not just trust what they see and read. Instead, they look at the data and weigh up the evidence. They will see if there was a sound study to back up claims. They will see if there is bias in the media source and whether it’s just following an ideological line.

Furthermore, they will make sure they seek out trustworthy media sources. These are not just media sources you like or that confirm your own point of view. They need to be sources that do their own research, find solid data, and don’t pursue one blind agenda.

13. Asking your Own Questions

Asking your own questions is an important part of critical thinking. When you ask questions, you are forcing yourself to think more deeply about the information you are considering.

Asking questions also allows you to gather more information from others who may have different perspectives.

This helps you to better understand the issue and to come up with your own conclusions.

So, often at schools, we give students a list of questions to ask about something in order to dig deeper into it. For example, in a book review lesson, the teacher might give a list of questions to ask about the book’s characters and plot.

14. Conducting Rigorous Research

Research is a process of inquiry that encompasses the gathering of data, interpretation of findings, and communication of results. The researcher needs to engage in critical thinking throughout the process, but most importantly, when designing their methodology.

Research can be done through a variety of methods, such as experiments, surveys, interviews, and observations. Each method has strengths and weaknesses.

Once the data has been collected, it must be analyzed and interpreted. This is often done through statistical methods or qualitative analysis.

Research is an essential tool for discovering new knowledge and for solving problems, but researchers need to think critically about how valid and reliable their data truly is.

15. Examining your own Beliefs and Prejudices

It’s important to examine your own beliefs and prejudices in order to ensure that they are fair and accurate. People who don’t examine their own beliefs have not truly critically examined their lives.

One way to do this is to take the time to consider why you believe what you do. What experiences have you had that have led you to this belief? Are there other ways to interpret these experiences? It’s also important to be aware of the potential for confirmation bias , which is when we seek out information that confirms our existing beliefs, while ignoring information that contradicts them.

This can lead us to hold onto inaccurate or unfair beliefs even when presented with evidence to the contrary.

To avoid this, it’s important to seek out diverse perspectives, and to be open-minded when considering new information. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your beliefs are fair and accurate.

16. Looking at a Situation from Multiple Perspectives

One of the most important critical thinking skills that you can learn in life is how to look at a situation from multiple perspectives.

Being able to see things from different angles can help you to understand complex issues, spot potential problems, and find creative solutions. It can also help you to build better relationships, as you will be able to see where others are coming from and find common ground.

There are a few simple techniques that you can use to develop this skill.

First, try to imagine how someone else would feel in the same situation.

Second, put yourself in their shoes and try to see things from their point of view.

Finally, ask yourself what other factors may be influencing their perspective. By taking the time to view things from multiple angles, you will be better prepared to deal with whatever life throws your way.

17. Considering Implications before Taking Action

When faced with a difficult decision, it is important to consider the implications of each possible action before settling on a course of action.

This is because the consequences of our actions can be far-reaching and often unforeseen.

For example, a seemingly small decision like whether to attend a party or not might have much larger implications. If we decide to go to the party, we might miss an important deadline at work.

However, if we stay home, we might miss out on an opportunity to meet new people and make valuable connections.

In either case, our choice can have a significant impact on our lives.

Fortunately, critical thinking can help people to make well-informed decisions that could have a positive impact on their lives.

For example, you might have to weight up the pros and cons of attending the party and identify potential downsides, like whether you might be in a car with an impaired driver, and whether the party is really worth losing your job.

Having weighed up the potential outcomes, you can make a more rational and informed decision.

18. Reflective Practice

Reflecting on your actions is an important part of critical thinking. When you take the time to reflect, you are able to step back and examine your choices and their consequences more objectively.

This allows you to learn from your mistakes and make better decisions in the future.

In order to reflect effectively, it is important to be honest with yourself and open to learning new things. You must also be willing to question your own beliefs and assumptions. By taking these steps, you can develop the critical thinking skills that are essential for making sound decisions next time.

This will also, fortunately, help you to constantly improve upon yourself.

19. Problem-Solving

Problem-solving requires the ability to think critically in order to accurately assess a situation and determine the best course of action.

This means being able to identify the root cause of a problem , as well as any potential obstacles that may stand in the way of a solution. It also involves breaking down a problem into smaller, more manageable pieces in order to more easily find a workable solution.

In addition, critical thinking skills also require the ability to think creatively in order to come up with original solutions to these problems.

Go Deeper: Problem-Solving Examples

20. Brainstorming New Solutions

When brainstorming new solutions , critical thinking skills are essential in order to generate fresh ideas and identify potential issues.

For example, the ability to identify the problems with the last solution you tried is important in order to come up with better solutions this time. Similarly, analytical thinking is necessary in order to evaluate the feasibility of each idea. Furthermore, it is also necessary to consider different perspectives and adapt to changing circumstances.

By utilizing all of these critical thinking skills, it will be possible to develop innovative solutions that are both practical and effective.

21. Reserving Judgment

A key part of critical thinking is reserving judgment. This means that we should not rush to conclusions, but instead take the time to consider all the evidence before making up our minds.

By reserving judgment, we can avoid making premature decisions that we might later regret. We can also avoid falling victim to confirmation bias, which is the tendency to only pay attention to information that supports our existing beliefs.

Instead, by keeping an open mind and considering all the evidence, we can make better decisions and reach more accurate conclusions.

22. Identifying Deceit

Critical thinking is an important skill to have in any situation, but it is especially important when trying to identify deceit.

There are a few key things to look for when using critical thinking to identify deceit.

First, pay attention to the person’s body language. Second, listen closely to what the person is saying and look for any inconsistencies. Finally, try to get a sense of the person’s motive – why would they want to deceive you?

Each of these questions helps you to not just take things at their face value. Instead, you’re critiquing the situation and coming to a conclusion using all of your intellect and senses, rather than just believing what you’re told.

23. Being Open-Minded to New Evidence that Contradicts your Beliefs

People with critical thinking skills are more open-minded because they are willing to consider different points of view and evidence.

They also realize that their own beliefs may be wrong and are willing to change their minds if new information is presented.

Similarly, people who are not critical thinkers tend to be close-minded because they fail to critique themselves and challenge their own mindset. This can lead to conflicts, as closed-minded people are not willing to budge on their beliefs even when presented with contradictory evidence.

Critical thinkers, on the other hand, are able to have more productive conversations as they are willing to listen to others and consider different viewpoints. Ultimately, being open-minded and willing to change one’s mind is a sign of intelligence and maturity.

24. Accounting for Bias

We all have biases, based on our individual experiences, perspectives, and beliefs. These can lead us to see the world in a certain way and to interpret information in a way that supports our existing views.

However, if we want to truly understand an issue, it is important to try to put aside our personal biases and look at the evidence objectively.

This is where critical thinking skills come in.

By using critical thinking, we can examine the evidence dispassionately and assess different arguments without letting our own prejudices get in the way. Start by looking at weaknesses and logical flaws in your own thinking.

Play the devil’s advocate.

In this way, you can start to get a more accurate picture of an issue and make more informed decisions.

25. Basing your Beliefs on Logic and Reasoning

In order to lead a successful and fulfilling life, it is important to base your beliefs on logic and reasoning.

This does not mean that you should never believe in something without evidence, but it does mean that you should be thoughtful and intentional about the things that you choose to believe.

One way to ensure that your beliefs are based on logic and reasoning is to seek out reliable sources of information. Another method is to use thought games to follow all your thoughts to their logical conclusions.

By basing your beliefs on logic and reasoning, you will be more likely to make sound decisions, and less likely to be swayed by emotions or misinformation.

Critical thinking is an important skill for anyone who wants to be successful in the modern world. It allows us to evaluate information and make reasoned decisions, rather than simply accepting things at face value.

Thus, employers often want to employ people with strong critical thinking skills. These employees will be able to solve problems by themselves and identify ways to improve the workplace. They will be able to push back against bad decisions and use their own minds to make good decisions.

Furthermore, critical thinking skills are important for students. This is because they need to be able to evaluate information and think through problems with a critical mindset in order to learn and improve.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay With Tips and Examples

11 December 2023

last updated

Essay writing is an integral academic exercise for students in higher educational institutions. As an example of different paper types, a critical thinking essay requires students to employ analytical and reflective writing skills. In essence, these skills underscore essential features of a critical thinking essay: analysis of information, reflection on key findings, a review of the relevance of the information, and an identification of any conclusions made by the author(s) or other scholars. Hence, a critical thinking essay is a specific type of writing that requires learners to read documents and make interpretations from their points of view. In turn, writers need to learn how to write a critical thinking essay to master their analytical, creative, and reflective skills.

General Guidelines for Writing a Critical Thinking Essay

Critical thinking is an essential skill, particularly for students who need to analyze and interpret data. In this case, the essence of this skill is that learners confront issues every day that require them to make prompt decisions. Moreover, critical thinking is the mechanism by which individuals arrive at these decisions. Therefore, a critical thinking essay is a document that allows students to address an issue holistically. Then, it means addressing issues in an essay format by using critical thinking skills from different perspectives, highlighting possible alternatives, and making well-thought-out decisions. To the audience, such a text makes it easy to understand the writer’s message and either agree or disagree with it. Besides, the decision to agree or disagree is based on the writer’s information regarding an issue in question. Hence, this is why authors of critical thinking essays need to provide details that make their arguments stronger and more palatable to the audience.

How to write a critical thinking essay with examples

1. Defining Characteristics of a Critical Thinking Essay

When writing a critical thinking essay, students should address several essential features. Firstly, writers need to reflect on what they have read, meaning taking time to consider the relevance of the information. In this case, such an attitude helps them to make strong arguments in defense of their points of view. Secondly, learners need to analyze how the information is presented and state whether it is sufficient or needs improvement. Thirdly, writers need to review the information based on previous knowledge. Here, they should say whether the information advances a concept or theory or contradicts existing knowledge. Finally, scholars need to identify the conclusion reached by the author(s) of the information and support or challenge it.

2. How to Identify a Critical Thinking Essay

Based on the essential features described above, students can tell whether an essay that they are writing is a critical thinking paper. Ideally, learners can know that their papers are critical thinking essays if prompt requirements require them to read and analyze a text. Basically, the analysis process includes reflecting on the text, commenting on how information is presented and its relation to previous knowledge, and supporting or challenging the conclusion made. In principle, these requirements reflect the defining features of a critical thinking essay.

3. How Does a Critical Thinking Essay Differ From Other Papers

A critical thinking essay differs fundamentally from other types of essays because it requires a student to read a text, such as a book or a poem, and analyze it using the writer’s perspective. Moreover, some instructions need students to analyze a film. In other words, writing a critical thinking essay emphasizes the students’ understanding of information and the meaning of what they have read, watched, or heard. Indeed, it is a central point of difference from other types of papers that require students to refrain from personal viewpoints. Then, this feature means that instructors grade a critical thinking essay based on the writer’s ability to develop a coherent argument and use essential writing skills. In this light, one can argue that a critical thinking essay is a form of an argumentative essay .

Free Examples of 20 Topics for Writing a Critical Thinking Essay

1. identify communication differences between men and women.

Under this topic, the students’ task is to read texts that talk about how men and women communicate and identify the differences. In this case, writers should analyze what they have read and summarize it via concise statements or arguments.

2. Discuss Drug Use in Sports

Under this topic, the students’ task is to research texts, such as research journal articles and government reports, that address the problem of drug use in sports and summarize their findings.

3. Explore the Anti-Meth Campaign

Under this topic, the students’ task is to read widely about anti-meth campaigns and provide an in-depth analysis of their impacts. By reading a critical thinking essay, the audience should understand whether specific campaigns have been effective or ineffective.

4. Discuss Homelessness and Its Social Impacts

Under this topic, the students’ task is to read texts about homelessness, such as journal articles and reports by governments and other humanitarian organizations, and explain the root causes and social implications of homelessness.

5. Discuss the History of College Football in the United States

Under this topic, the students’ task is to read documents, such as books and media articles, narrating college football history in the US. After writing a critical thinking essay, the audience should identify specific challenges that college football has faced in its development in the country.

6. Explore Health Effects of Obesity

Under this topic, the students’ task is to read research studies and medical reports discussing obesity. In turn, a critical thinking essay should explain the specific causes of obesity and the risks that obese individuals face.

7. Discuss the Significance of Street Art and Graffiti

Under this topic, the students’ task is to read texts discussing the evolution of street art and graffiti and make compelling arguments as to why they are essential features of modern art.

8. Sports On Television: Is It Necessary?

Under this topic, the students’ task is to explain why television has become a critical platform for sports and how it undermines or helps advance its social and cultural significance.

9. What Is the Essence of Multicultural Identity?

Under this topic, the students’ task is to explore the phenomenon of multiculturalism that has become notable and acceptable in modern society and explain its significance.

10. The Relevance of Body Size in Modeling

Under this topic, the students’ task is to explore the modeling profession and explain why body size matters. In other words, a critical thinking essay should make a case as to why a model should have a particular body size.

11. Understanding Multicultural Families

Under this topic, the students’ task is to explore multicultural families by reading texts that address the issue from a research or commentary perspective and summarize the leading arguments.

12. Changing Gender Roles: What It Means for Traditionalists

Under this topic, the student’s task is to explore gender roles from a historical and present perspective and discuss how it threatens or cements traditional views about the roles of men and women.

13. What Is Ethnic Music, and Does It Matter in a Multicultural Society?

Under this topic, the students’ task is to study multiculturalism and identify how ethnic music is a significant characteristic.

14. American Society and the Latino Influence

Under this topic, the students’ task is to study contemporary American society’s characteristics and indicate the extent to which Latinos and their culture (Latin American) have become a significant part of the American identity.

15. Challenges of Single-Parent Households

Under this topic, the students’ task is to read research studies on single parenthood and identify its challenges.

16. What Are the Features of a Good Movie?

Under this topic, the students’ task is to watch movies they consider “good” and provide an analysis of what makes them so.

17. Describe a Poem With a First-Person Point of View

Under this topic, the students’ task is to select a poem, examine it, and describe its outstanding features, such as literary devices.

18. The Dynamics of Adoption in a Multicultural Society

Under this topic, the students’ task is to examine the aspect of adoption within the context of a multicultural society.

19. What Store Strategies Influence Consumers?

Under this topic, the students’ task is to study the phenomenon of retail stores and give an analysis of specific factors that lead to their growth or shut down.

20. Euthanasia: The Questions of Ethics, Morals, and Legality

Under this topic, the students’ task is to examine the aspect of euthanasia (mercy or assisted killing) and give an opinion on whether society should address it from a perspective of ethics, morals, or law.

How Students Can Understand if They Need to Write a Critical Thinking Essay by Looking at a Topic

When it comes to essay writing, the department’s requirements provide direction about a critical thinking topic. By reading such a topic, students get an idea of what kind of paper they are supposed to write. Regarding a critical thinking essay, a topic should require students to research a specific theme, reflect on what they have read, and comment on how the author(s) have presented information, the relevance of the information to existing knowledge, and the significance of the author’s conclusion. In turn, these five tasks underscore the essential features of a critical thinking essay.

Structure of a Critical Thinking Essay

When it comes to an essay structure , a critical thinking essay comprises three main sections: introduction, body, and conclusion. When writing each of these sections, students should capture essential features. Firstly, the introduction should provide a hook to capture the readers’ attention and formulate a thesis statement to guide the paper’s arguments and ideas. In the body, writers should use topic sentences to introduce paragraphs. Besides, students should follow a sandwich rule, where they make a claim, provide supporting facts, and explain the significance of cited evidence to the paper’s thesis. In the conclusion part, authors should restate a thesis statement, summarize the main body points, and make a concluding remark. Finally, other essential features that learners should use in the main text are transitions to give a critical thinking paper a natural and logical flow of ideas and arguments.

Sample Outline Template for Writing a Critical Thinking Essay

I. Introduction

A. Start with a hook sentence that makes a critical thinking essay interesting. B. Cover brief information about a theme discussed in body paragraphs. C. End with a thesis statement of a critical thinking essay.

A. Background Information:

introduce an issue for readers;
provide examples that support this issue;
explain how examples correlate with a theme;
finish with defining an issue for readers.

B. Argument on an Issue

begin with an argument on an issue;
covers examples to support this argument;
explain how examples and argument are related;
conclude how an argument on this theme is relevant.

C. Importance of an Issue

state why this issue is important;
support this statement with examples from credible sources;
explain how these examples underline the importance of an issue;
end with a concluding sentence that supports this importance.

III. Conclusion

A. Restate a thesis claim. B. Cover the key points discussed in body paragraphs. C. Provide a final thought on an issue.

An Example of a Critical Thinking Essay

Topic: Roles of Critical Thinking Skills

I. Introduction Sample of a Critical Thinking Essay

Critical thinking is a requirement in higher education because it reflects the level of mental preparedness of students intending to join the labor industry. In this case, essay writing is one of the strategies that higher education institutions use to develop these critical thinking skills in students. Writing argumentative essays has profoundly shaped my critical thinking skills and made me more reflective and analytical in my texts.

II. Examples of Body Paragraphs in a Critical Thinking Essay

A. background information of an issue.

The advent of the Internet opened a new world of research as scholars found a platform to publish research findings. Besides scholars, public and private entities have turned to the online platform to spread information they perceive as critical and needful. Over time, I have come to see the Internet as a crucial reservoir of knowledge, and I always turn to it for personal enrichment. Moreover, Gilster (1997) perceives critical thinking as a critical skill for individuals who use online platforms for academic purposes. In this case, the author demonstrates that, since the Internet is full of falsehoods and incomplete and obsolete information, it is critical for those who depend on this technology to employ critical thinking. Hence, such thinking helps users distinguish between essential, relevant information, and what appears to be irrelevant and nonessential.

On the issue of critical thinking, examining and analyzing content are fundamental exercises. In essence, critical thinking entails reading a text and interpreting it by using an analytical lens. For example, when students read novels, they can use their critical thinking skills to analyze the plot and characters and provide arguments that indicate an in-depth understanding of both (Gilster, 1997). In most cases, such ideas go beyond what is written in the novel to include the student’s interpretation of events. In my case, I use the Internet to find research and media articles on different topics, such as homelessness, substance abuse, crime, and police and law enforcement. Moreover, I use these articles to reflect on the dynamics that shape life in contemporary society, using my critical thinking skills to relate the past, present, and future. Therefore, I can state confidently that this habit has made me a strong debater on contemporary issues.

By using critical thinking skills, readers make deductions, thereby showcasing their understanding levels. As the literature suggests, critical thinking serves as a basis for knowledge accumulation and advancement (Ku & Ho, 2010). In my academic journey, I have employed critical thinking to gain insight into several issues. Furthermore, one of these issues is the significance of politics to the life of ordinary citizens. Then, many documents I have read about politics have made me conclude that politicians are selfish by default and only develop consensus when their interests are accommodated. Hence, this understanding has made me have minimal expectations from local and national political figures.

III. Conclusion Sample of a Critical Thinking Essay

Critical thinking is a key skill that helps individuals to analyze and reflect on information from diverse sources. Over the years, I have used critical thinking to analyze research and media articles published on online platforms and make logical deductions. Moreover, these deductions point to my ability to take information, analyze, and interpret it. Thus, I can confidently state that my critical thinking skills have made me aware of human weaknesses and the risk of putting too much trust in people vulnerable to shortcomings.

Gilster, P. (1997). Digital literacy: The thinking and survival skills new users need to make the Internet personally and professionally meaningful . New York, NY: Wiley.

Ku, K. Y., & Ho, I. T. (2010). Metacognitive strategies that enhance critical thinking. Metacognition and Learning , 5 (3), 251-267.

Summing Up on How to Write a Good Critical Thinking Essay

A critical thinking essay is a document that reflects students’ ability to use analytical and reflective skills in studying an issue. Although writing a critical thinking essay assumes following a basic structure of a standard essay, it has features that distinguish it from other papers. When writing this type of essay, students should master the following tips:

read and analyze information;
reflect on study findings;
review the relevance of the information within the context of existing knowledge;
identify any conclusions made by authors or other scholars and their significance.

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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.

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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175 Critical Thinking Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best critical thinking topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good essay topics on critical thinking, 🥇 most interesting critical thinking topics to write about, ✅ simple & easy critical thinking essay titles, ❓ critical thinking essay questions.

What Is Critical Thinking? A critical thinker makes his decisions based on broad and in-depth analysis of the evidence and thereafter communicates the beliefs accurately and clearly. Ennis in his book “The Cornell Critical Thinking Tests” defines critical thinking […]
Critical Thinking: Reason, Emotion, Communication Sally’s example shows that a lack of critical thinking may result in emotional distress and the individual’s inability to take weighed decisions. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
Critical Thinking in Everyday Life The conception of free will is based on the question of whether it is possible for a person to have absolutely objective thinking, or we are always under the influence of many hindrances preventing us […]
Critical Thinking Role in the Clinical Psychology These activities and conducts may lead a psychologist to identify the mental activities in the brain of the individual. Clinical psychologists specialization is founded on the framework the individual takes in training to become a […]
The Importance of Critical Thinking in Education These characteristics of critical thinking are valuable for the teaching profession and their development and improvement can help to considerably increase the quality of teaching.
Examples of Critical Thinking in Law Enforcement The eight elements of thought in critical thinking will outline the model and provide a blueprint to the development of new policies and strategies.
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Critical Thinking Skills Modern technologies are effective in enhancing critical thinking skills because they expose teachers and students to valuable information and allow them to develop their research competencies.
Death Penalty: Critical Thinking and Arguments The execution sermons of the early colonies were full of warnings against following in the footsteps of the condemned, and executions were public events designed to instill fear and reverence for the law in the […]
Critical Thinking in Nursing Practice The necessary improvement can be made by prioritizing critical thinking in the training process and providing the students with tools to develop this ability during everyday life activities. Critical thinking relates to the processes of […]
Critical Thinking in Junot Diaz’s “The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao” Noteworthy, the relationship between Oscar and Ybon is used as an example of the relationships that occur between members of the South American immigrants in the US. Yet, he holds to the stereotypic belief that […]
Whistleblowing as a Critical Thinking Skill Whistleblowing is defined as “having four component parts: 1) an individual acts with the intention of making information public; 2) the information is conveyed to parties outside the organization who make it public and a […]
Disadvantages of Modern Technology for Critical Thinking Due to the ubiquity of the Internet, people have access to all sources of information, libraries, research, etc. Modern technologies open access to knowledge to everyone, but at the same time, they do not provide […]
Critical Thinking in Law Enforcement Critical thinking is a unique approach to a situation that allows a to analyze the available information to come to conclusions. Therefore, it is essential to include the development of critical thinking skills in the […]
Critical Thinking and Decision Making In the first journal entry, the heart of the matter or the core issue in a situation was noted to be the most essential in ensuring that it is solved properly.
The Importance of Critical Thinking at Work I have a strong ability to learn the most from all situations and recall similar situations that I have been in before in an attempt to decide what to do.
Assumptions and Critical Thinking Assumptions refer to the things that a researcher might take for granted in the research process, yet they are very important, as far as the success of the research is concerned. An individual is encouraged […]
Perception and Critical Thinking: The Relations Between the Cognitive Processes Critical thinking is possible if different parts of the brain adequately assess the relevance of various external stimuli.
Political Sciences: Nelson Mandela as a Critical Thinker One of the aspects that make Mandela a critical thinker is his ability to reflect on ideas, beliefs, arguments, and conclusions.
Using CTQs and CTDs to Develop Critical Thinking CTQ and CTD can help a person develop critical thinking, as it is an algorithm of actions and a set of questions, the study of which directs the brain to the process of critical thinking.
The Importance of Critical Thinking Consequently, a manager may rely on the CT technique of using ISs to aid in DM by examining the nature of information exchange and generating a sound stance toward resolving an issue.
Critical Thinking: Definition and Characteristics One of the concept’s definitions is “the ability to analyze information objectively and make a reasoned judgment”. Ryan proposes a similar explanation, “Critical thinking is the ability to effectively analyze information and form a judgment”.
Critical Thinking: Immigrants’ Experiences The present paper analyzes the experiences of immigrants from Japan, China, and Mexico, as well as the history of Black Americans in the North.
Critical Thinking on the Border Crossings Argument Since both of these factors are morally unimportant, they should not constitute restrictions on the movement of people across borders. Therefore: Morally unimportant factors are not a valid argument for prohibiting the suppression of states’ […]
International Drug Trafficking: Critical Thinking Moreover, it is of concern that the power of drug traffickers is constantly growing and that they are influencing the economic and political affairs of cities.
Learning Strategies for Critical Thinking It improves the students’ comprehension skills of the acquired material, as they learn to obtain the necessary information. Finally, it encourages teamwork, as they cooperate to achieve the goals.
Importance of Encouraging Critical Thinking Moreover, the method of forward-thinking, which contributes to improving critical thinking by developing optimism and logic in students, will be implemented.
Instructional Strategies for Critical Thinking The most notable strategies include the use of other points of view, reading a lot, and analyzing things as they are seen.
Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Skills Media literacy implies an understanding by the audience of the basic principles of the work of the media, including the search for the necessary information, understanding the principles of the formation of messages by different […]
Decision Making, Problem Solving, and Critical Thinking Because there is a low retention rate in the profession. Why is there a low retention rate in the profession?
Assumptions and Critical Thinking: Overview Implicitness, as the ability to contain information that is not explicitly expressed, is a category of text that is complex, integral, and has various ways of manifestation. The difference is that in the first case, […]
Perception and Critical Thinking Critical thinking is an essential ability that helps people investigate the environment, find information, and make decisions. The scenario above is an example of critical thinking that is essential for individuals.
Importance of Critical Thinking As for the heart of the matter, it is essential to define three types of thinking here: comparative, ideological, and empirical. Empirical thinking is the thinking of facts and the conclusions that are possible from […]
The Role in Education in Critical Thinking Development I try to walk the audience through my research process using critical thinking, and I see improved results in their response.
Teamwork and Critical Thinking The analyst role is essential to team thinking in nursing practice because it enables the nurses to realize all the aspects of the situation, providing a wider view.
Critical Thinking in Diagnosing Sepsis Most likely, this is a generalized nonspecific infectious and inflammatory process caused by the penetration of uroinfectious pathogens and their toxins into the bloodstream. The abdomen of the patient is soft, flat and non-tender, with […]
Critical Thinking in the Medical Field The strengths that can contribute to my success as a critical thinker are empathy, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. Critical thinking is correlated with an entire set of different skills as it can be […]
Critical Thinking Incident in Clinical Nursing The confusion resulting in the outcomes is caused by the continuous and demanding activities undertaken by the providers and the failure to inquire about the effects of the action taken.
Critical Thinking Elements in Nursing The ability to introduce the elements of critical thinking into problem management and address patients’ needs is one of the principal skills that students will have to develop to have a proper clinical practice.
Critical Thinking in a Personal Decision However, the anticipated outcome of the solution is to create a way to reflect on my past while reevaluating the decisions I made back then and starting afresh, and therefore, this decision will give me […]
How to Teach Your Child to Be a Critical Thinker The use of particular methods, tactics, and strategies of encouragement is the key to the development of a unique system of judgments and certain abilities, skills, and talents in solving difficult moments.
Critical Thinking and What Constitutes This Ability One, a critical thinker must have the ability to engage in both independent and reflective thinking. The other standard blocks associated with critical thinking are that a person must be willing to reflect on the […]
Creative and Critical Thinking in Case of Lack of Water In order to identify the significance of creative and critical thinking in the situation presented, it is necessary to dwell on the definition of the process of creative thinking.
Discussion of Critical Thinking I believe this study qualifies to be the primary data source for the investigation of the relationship between the reputation of the seller and their performance in the market.
Critical Thinking. Start-Up Success and Growth Vic Ahmed, the founder of Innovation Pavilion, can be considered a successful entrepreneur as he can take risks, which is one of a businessman’s essential qualities. The factor determining their progress is based on a […]
The Nature of Arguments and Critical Thinking An example is: Alaska is one of the states of the United States of America. This is the reasoning to which the standard of validity or logical correctness can be applied.
Critical Thinking: Multinational Strategic Management At some point in the management of this organization, the policies that have been formulated to ensure that the operations of the firm are smooth and efficient have failed in application. This is because they […]
Critical Thinking in the Writing Process The academic writing process can be summarized by five distinctive stages. First, the discovery and investigation stages require writers to engage with sources.
“Using Bloom’s Taxonomy to Teach Critical Thinking…” by Nentl Information should be synthesized during the academic writing process. The first part of the process is knowledge, a type of category that involves remembering information.
Critical Thinking: Examining the Claims About Salespeople The third claim to be examined is the assertion that salespeople are not doing a great job and, therefore, have to be kicked out from the organization in order to help the management improve sales.
Critical Thinking Activity Overview For this critical thinking activity, I decided to watch the episodes of a Reality TV show and a News show whose the main purposes are entertainment and the provocation of emotions.
Ethical Understandings and Critical Thinking in Education The success of the paradigm reflects the dramatic change in the perception of education goals that has happened throughout the last century.
Critical Thinking and Practice of the Registered Nurse There is a lot of proficiency that can be gained in relation to reasoning and this is where critical thinking comes in.
Use of Critical Thinking in the Diagnostic Process With the realization that the responses provided by patients are foundational in diagnoses, it is emphasized that nurses need to encompass CT during nursing diagnoses as this helps in unraveling the complexity and uniqueness of […]
Applying Critical Thinking Processes to Professional Practice The 8 phases of clinical reasoning helped the team understand and analyse the contextual factors contributing to Jenny’s health and identify roles of health professionals involved in the case management.
Critical Thinking of Palestine For instance, the levels of suffering and poverty have increased in the region due to the problem of desertification. Learners should consider such issues and be ready to be part of the problem.
The Issue of Traffic Congestion in Atlanta: Composition and Critical Thinking In the following paper, the issue of traffic congestion in Atlanta will be addressed in terms of its possible solutions that could be implemented with the aim of solving it.
Warnick’s “Critical Thinking and Communication” Book’s Marketing Analysis The book “Critical Thinking and Communication: The Use of Reason in Argument ” by Edward Inch and Barbara Warnick can be evaluated as one of the best textbooks on the art of rhetoric, developing arguments, […]
Biodiesel: Statistical Fallacy and Critical Thinking In this article, the author quotes a world bank report that argued that Bio fuels in American and Europe has pushed food prices up by more than 75 % contradicting another White House report that […]
Critical Thinking: Mindsets and Biases Most of the perceptions that people have about most of the things in this world are shaped by mindsets and biases.
Critical Thinking: Thought and Intellectual Standard Elements of thoughts and intellectual standards are very vital parts of the critical thinking process and this essay will look at some of the elements of thoughts and intellectual standards in details.
Critical Thinking in a Work-Related Decision It was at that instance that Larry paid a lot of attention and told Scott that his uncle owned a condo in the exact region Scott intended to visit.
Steve Williams on Critical Thinking Review The following are the processes that he recommends to be taken; The first step in making a good decision is defining the challenge that calls for a decision to be made.
Whistleblowing Is an Act Representative of Critical Thinkers Analyzing the definitions of “whistleblowing” and “critical thinking”, it is possible to make a conclusion that these concepts have similar meanings.
Problem-Solving Simulation and Critical Thinking There are three animals in question and a man who needs to cross the animals to the other side of the river; the dog, the mouse and the cat.
Ethics and Critical Thinking in Business It entails weighing of the pros and cons of using the devices in the context in which they are used. It is imperative for casinos to deter any form of cheat to be fair in […]
Whistleblowing and Representation of Critical Thinkers In Allegory of the Cave, the Plato presents the idea that a person who has seen the fire or “the light” is able to see the reality and the truth.
Critical Thinking. Asking the Right Questions Questions are the essence of study and cognition, consequently, the ability to ask questions is at the center of any thinking process, especially critical thinking, which is aimed at reviewing and analyzing.
Obesity Tackling on Critical Thinking Standards It is impossible to stop the implementation of technology and invention in daily life. The solutions of the reasoning are accurate in the way that it is dealt with in this paper.
Critical Thinking in the Medical Care Delivery System Issues pertaining to truth or mission of truth is a frustrating, discouraging, tiring, and long journey because most of the individuals who have industries or organizations ties may attempt to mislead other people.
How to Become a Critical Thinker: Discussion Critical thinking is not low order thinking which basically involves processing of information that enables one to know where to cross the road, when to go to bed and or go for lunch but a […]
Critical Thinking With Obesity Technically, obesity is a condition of the human body in which the bodyweight of an individual is much higher than the normal prescribed weight and is measured by checking the Body Mass Index of the […]
How to Become an Accomplished Critical Thinker Critical thinking is a way of thinking that must be taught and practiced before it becomes a habit of mind because critical thinking involves the exercise of a great many skills at the same time.
Critical Thinking Applied to Theory, Concepts and Variables To effect reintegration and maximize restorative justice, Braithwaite’s theory suggested, the shaming approaches needed to: Emphasize a “moralizing approach” rather than punitive social control in order to be relevant to the postmodern American social context; […]
What Critical Thinking Is and How to Become an Accomplished Critical Thinker? In that regard, a definition that covers all the concepts of critical thinking might be considered as follows: Critical thinking is the use of those cognitive skills or strategies that increase the probability of a […]
Rap Culture and Music: Critical Thinking Thanks mainly to the champions of the folk revival of the 1960s and the dynamic African-American musicians leading the Civil Rights Movement, serious – and highly volatile – problems such as social injustice, hypocrisy, war-mongering, […]
Reasoning and Critical Thinking in Daily Life As a counterpoint to the idea that expert behavior is the best place to look for generally useful strategies, The goal of producing descriptive theories of how people go about solving problems and the development […]
The Critical Thinking GEN 480: The CEO of AcuScan The purpose of the paper is to present an executive summary of the case for the CEO of AcuScan. It would preview the main points of the document, enabling readers to build a mental framework […]
The Socratic Method: Fostering Critical Thinking The Socratic Method is a philosophical mode of questioning that involves the investigation of connotations of other situations that are related to the topic of inquiry itself.
Influence and Application of Critical Thinking The information processing and critical thinking had been regarded above, and it is directly linked with reading the same factors of critical thinking influence both: reading and information processing.
Presidents Misdeeds: Ethics and Critical Thinking The same applies to what is right and what is wrong that is what is right or wrong differs from individual to individual, group to group, society to society.
Online Social Networking and Critical Thinking The purpose of this paper is to assess whether this technology has helped to enhance the critical thinking ability and the effective writing skills of a person.”A social networking site is an online place where […]
Critical Thinking and Decision Making in Professional and Personal Life The critical thinking and decision-making procedures are very important and essential in dispensation the amount of order that is pushed on us daylight hours the following day.
Mobile Technology Impact on Critical Thinking Abilities in Nurses The issue of the research is absent from the abstract, but the point is that it is not clearly declared in the main body.
Leaders’ Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills At the same time, the main barriers to effective decision-making are perceptual and emotional biases, as well as such phenomena as groupthink or collective thinking, referring to the tendency to agree with the opinion of […]
Multinational Enterprise in Critical Thinking The wave of globalization has led to the establishment of many corporations that operate in different countries or regions. According to this concept, they produce goods that are marketed in different parts of the world.
Critical Thinking in Business Management In order to prevent the development of confirmation bias, managers must be aware of it and ready to learn and accept new information.
Critical Thinking Skills for Postgraduate Study 1 However, to be able to explore a certain area and converse with others effectively, critical thinking is not enough, In addition to the ability to discern between the sensible and the nonsensical, one also […]
Critical Thinking Development in Students It is necessary to note that people who are able to think critically can actually make a difference and contribute to development of the entire humanity.
Critical Thinking and Society Exercise For instance, using fossil fuels as the main source of energy has led to the degradation of the environment through toxic emissions. Opinion can be used to redirect the process of thinking by weighing the […]
The Eleven Steps in the Critical Thinking Method It was also pointed out the certainty that the members of the union will lose their jobs because of the government’s drive to achieve efficiency although there is nothing in the proposal that can compel […]
Decision Making and Critical Thinking When making a certain decision, it is important to consider all the involved elements in order to achieve the desired results and avoid consequences that would affect either party in a negative manner.
Critical Thinking Skills for Company’s Communication It is therefore important that the company introduces a new product in the market to regain its position as the leader in the market.
Best Practices in Critical Thinking and Decision Making Thus, it is the role of the critical thinker to make sure that the evaluation drawn from such a breakdown is defensible.
Critical Thinking and Writing Skills Reflection I have gained so much academically from studying this writing course, and I believe that the skills and knowledge gained from Clouse and Grevstad’s The Student Writer: Editor and Critic will go a long way […]
Critical Thinking in the Decision-Making Processes According to Ennis, one can view “critical thinking as a way of becoming aware of and taking control of one’s thinking processes to think more effectively”.
Critical Thinking, Mission and Leadership Statement This is because it consists of a detailed guideline that takes into consideration all the factors in the environment that may influence the goals, missions, and leadership statements. The position of a leader that I […]
Critical Thinking for University Students Critical thinking refers to the process of skillful and active conceptualization, synthesis, application, evaluation, and analysis of information gathered from various sources and in various ways to guide one’s actions and beliefs. Examinations and tests […]
Believing Game as Critical Thinking Approach The doubting game is considered to be an essential approach to this process. Moreover, this approach helps to evaluate the personal position and to see its possible drawbacks and weak spots.
Critical Thinking in Business & Life Decision-Making Such a method is beneficial for its practical application to determine and make tradeoffs within the context of set objectives as well as the range of alternatives to them.
Does Group Discussion Improve Critical Thinking Skills? And a divisive question among psychologists and educators is the use of group work and discussion as a means to develop critical thinking.
Students’ Critical Thinking Skills Development If Tsui only states the perspectives according to which it is possible to reform the existing approach to enhance the students’ critical thinking abilities with references to the conducted research, Payne and Gainey provide the […]
Doctoral Demeanor, Responsibility, Critical Thinking It has been demonstrated that the outward expression of an individual greatly determines how he or she is perceived by other persons. If the demeanor attributes are not pleasing other people, the individual could be […]
Critical Thinking: Developing Skills At that time, the ability to think critically and recognize the deeper meaning of information coming from the outside world became more attractive due to the pressure of the totalitarian governments that were operating in […]
Critical Thinking vs. Scientific Authority Even before Painter carried out the experiment on human chromosomes, previous studies on the same had already confirmed a total of 23 pairs of chromosomes.
Breach of a Law: Critical Thinking The case discussed in this paper is an excellent example of an ethical challenge in which one participating company must decide on a course of action including whether to continue as one of the parties […]
Critical Thinking Benefits in Decision-Making Processes It is the purpose of this paper to provide an example of critical thinking application at the personal level in addition to critically discussing the importance and benefits of critical thinking in decision-making processes.
Critical Thinking and Paraphrasing: The Word “War” The writer’s opinion brings out the negative side of the word’s interpretation or significance and portrays lack of enough objectives and more productive terms of the language.
Public Speaking: Ethics and Critical Thinking The audience should be able to trust the speaker. The speaker will also use valid arguments and facts before presenting his or her findings to the audience.
Critical Thinking Tools in Decision Making Process The authors suggest that critical thinking will aid individuals in dealing with the qualms of the contemporary society and become secure in the choices they make.
Homeland Security’s Critical Thinking Model The ‘best’ critical thinking model that is established in this essay consists of a combination of other critical thinking models that have been employed in the past.
Congress’ Work in Critical Thinking: A User’s Manual As the matter of fact, the argument of the statement is centered on that fact that the only opportunity to pass the bill is to be flexible and use sweet-talking as the approach to influence […]
Critical Thinking Skills in Emergency Management Therefore, critical thinking plays a crucial role in the success of the response to emergencies. This aspect requires all the involved parties to understand the nature of the crisis that they are handling.
Education: Critical Thinking Process Critical thinking refers to the ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information or a situation. It entails the practice of engaging in independent and reflective thinking to identify and evaluate ideas to make informed decisions.
Critical Thinking and Decisions Making in Business, Management and Relationships Critical thinking is one of the most important skills required in making various decisions that pertain to business, management, relationships, and every other aspect of life.
Critical Thinking and Development of the Writer’s Reflection Techniques The view of the previous research is assessed and a decision is reached by the writer. Analysis is persuasive and the theory of critical writing will support the writer’s analysis.
The Steps of Critical Thinking: Memo She rejects the governor’s offer of privatizing the management function of the DMV information systems of the state, and says that the plight of the workers should have been considered.
Critical Thinking Paper: Executive Compensation Although most advocates of the high levels of executive compensation, especially for CEOs, argue that the suitability of compensation is determined through the market process of wage negotiation rather than a simple process of introspection, […]
Critical Thinking in Health Care Compared to Fero et al.’s key CT skills of autonomous interventions, clinical judgment, and analysis and interpretation of problems, Robert and Petersen identify risk estimation, and analysis and evaluation of diagnosis as the key aspects […]
Instructional Design, Constructivism, and Learning Sciences In the context of the gaming theory discussed before, the outer aspect of the game involves the interaction of the external stimuli through enhancement of the thinking process to determine the best possible strategies of […]
Bloom’s Taxonomy and Critical Thinking As of the strong sides of this approach, these are the clear definition of the stages of cognitive operations and the distinction that is made between them.
“The Development of Lexical Fluency in a Second Language” by Kroll et al. Methodology is a broader term that encompasses the theories and perspectives that underlies the research as well as the methods that are used in conducting the research.
Critical Thinking and Intelligence Analysis On the other hand, when speaking about the scientists who predicted war in various parts of the Earth, one can make a conclusion that biases in evaluating evidence as well as diagnostic techniques were used […]
What Is Critical Thinking? It seems that critical thinking can be defined as a cognitive process which involves unbiased evaluation and analysis of information as well the generation of new ideas or arguments. This is one of the points […]
Two Definitions of Critical Thinking Second, critical thinking is knowledge of the methods of logical inquiry and reasoning. Components of critical thinking seek and treat information in their ways, involve continual use of skills, and acknowledge the outcomes of the […]
HR Critical Thinking: Where Do You Find the Bodies? In order to maintain the employees, they should be treated well in that there should better working conditions and terms. The mechanics should be hired on better working conditions and terms in order to maintain […]
The Development of Ability to Critical Thinking That is why it is necessary to find new approaches to the analysis of many aspects of our everyday life. One more important aspect or objective for improving of your critical thinking is the necessity […]
Communication Systems, Ethical Issues, and Organizational Processes in the Hospital The meeting revolves around this and it is towards the end that Chris realizes that he was being briefed on the challenges affecting the hospital and that he is to use this information in coming […]
Critical Thinking: Level of Reasoning and Making Judgments This is because such offices are important in that they hold the keys to either the success or the failure of the corporations.
Critical Thinking and the Concept of Utility Taking into account that the search and satisfaction of customers needs are the fundaments in the profitability and overall effectiveness of the business, the efforts should be made by the firm to find the market […]
Corporate External and Internal Communication Argenti has discussed how a business’ corporate communication of internal and external communication to its constituencies should be, in the third and the seventh chapter his book Corporate Communication.
Critical Thinking: Knowledge and Understanding In spite of the fact that knowledge enhances the intellectual capacity of the people, it deprives them of the ability to think critically about the information that they have amassed.
Natural Science, Ethics, and Critical Thinking The consequences of the results of stem cell research have been under greater scrutiny and the rightness or wrongness of the practice is very unclear.
Critical Thinking and Worldview The purpose of life in Christianity’s view is to serve God. This is a big contrast to the Buddhism view on destiny.
The Importance and Relevance of Critical Thinking in Both the Classroom and the Outside World By use of type of critical thinking, the student has the ability to analyze and evaluate different concepts to come up with the best solution.
Critical Thinking and Its Role in Real Life Situations There are other instances in our lives that will always need critical thinking and this is a fact that we have to live with.
Critical Thinking About the Vietnam Conflict This forced the U.S.into supporting the establishment of an adversarial Vietnamese Republic in the south while arming, advising, and training the newly formed Army of the Republic of Vietnam.
What Is Critical Thinking, and How Is It Important in Our Lives? A critical thinker is one with the ability to solve a problem intellectually and skillfully by identifying the problem, conceptualizing on the same, analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information gathered and to exercise their best judgment […]
Critical Thinking as the Most Effective Learned Skill These are the features of critical thinking that we shall compare to the three commonly applied approaches of critical thinking to determine the approach that is most ideal.
The Importance of Being a Good Critical Thinker According to the article, there are a growing number of social networks that can be adopted to sell or dispense information; the networks include Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Yahoo Chat.
Critical Thinking Application Paper The evaluation critical thinking paper gives an example that required critical thinking as well as the importance and benefits of critical thinking in decision making process.
Critical Thinking and Actively and Skillfully Conceptualizing A problem can come from any part of the organization and being able to identify the specific problem is the most important thing in the process of critical thinking.
Critical Thinking in Problem Solving The common practice disorients the attention of the driver and endangers the lives of other individuals using the road. Thus, the technique has been employed to increase the production of food so as to meet […]
How Can Teachers Teach Critical Thinking? Despite the fact that, as we have mentioned earlier, the growing number of educators come to realize the indispensability of providing students with a stimulus to develop critical thinking, only few of them seem to […]
Critical Thinking and What Really Constitutes Critical Thinking This essay is going to apply the elements of critical thinking to the report of September 11, 2001 concerning the attacks on the United States.
What Is Critical Thinking?
How Does Critical Thinking Help Students?
What Does a Critical Thinking Essay Refer To?
Does Mindfulness Enhance Critical Think?
What Is the Role of Critical Thinking in the World Today?
What is the Difference Between the Critical Thinking and the Nonconscious Thinking? This paper states that critical thinking skills and nonconscious thinking are not mutually exclusive phenomena. They occur in parallel but are interconnected.
How Can Critical Thinking and Ethics Affect One’s Life?
What Are the Scope of Fallacies as They Relate to Creative and Critical Thinking?
Does Simulation Have Any Effect on the Self Confidence or Critical Thinking?
What Is the Importance of Individuality, Self-Knowledge, and Self-Worth in Critical Thinking?
How Will Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Techniques Assist in Duties as a Field Grade Officer?
What Is the Meaning of Critical Thinking to Our World Today?
Should Teach Critical Thinking in High School?
How Can Critical Thinking Be Used in Everyday Life?
What Effect Does Simulation Lab Have on Critical Thinking and Confidence?
How Does Critical Thinking and Ethics Affect Therapeutic Communication in the Treatment of Mental Health Patients?
What Role Does Language and Language Diversity Play in the Critical Thinking?
How Do Reading, Critical Thinking, and Writing Relate to One Another?
What Is the Connection Between Communication and Critical Thinking Skills?
How Can Critical Thinking Be Enhanced Among Students?
Is There a Link Between Critical Thinking and Money?
What Is Link Between Reflective Analysis and Critical Thinking?
Is There a Link Between Critical Thinking, Reflective Analysis, and Ethics in the World Today?
What Are the Benefits of Applied Critical Thinking to Organizations and Businesses Today?
How Well Are Our Schools Influencing Our Critical Thinking and Promoting Imagination in Students?
What Are the Arguments in Critical Thinking?
How Can I Improve My Critical Thinking Skills?
Are There Any Trends in Critical Thinking?
What Is the Scope of Creative Thinking About Critical Thinking?
How Important Is Critical Thinking to Your Problem-Solving Process?
What Are the Benefits of Learning Critical Thinking Skills?
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Academic Writing: Critical Thinking & Writing

Academic Writing
Planning your writing
Structuring your assignment
Critical Thinking & Writing
Building an argument
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Summarising, paraphrasing and quoting

Critical Thinking

One of the most important features of studying at university is the expectation that you will engage in thinking critically about your subject area.

Critical thinking involves asking meaningful questions concerning the information, ideas, beliefs, and arguments that you will encounter. It requires you to approach your studies with a curious, open mind, discard preconceptions, and interrogate received knowledge and established practices.

Critical thinking is key to successfully expressing your individuality as an independent learner and thinker in an academic context. It is also a valuable life skill.

Critical thinking enables you to:

Evaluate information, its validity and significance in a particular context.
Analyse and interpret evidence and data in response to a line of enquiry.
Weigh-up alternative explanations and arguments.
Develop your own evidence-based and well-reasoned arguments.
Develop well-informed viewpoints.
Formulate your own independent, justifiable ideas.
Actively engage with the wider scholarship of your academic community.

Writing Critically

Being able to demonstrate and communicate critical thinking in your written assignments through critical writing is key to achieving academic success.

Critical writing can be distinguished from descriptive writing which is concerned with conveying information rather than interrogating information. Understanding the difference between these two styles of academic writing and when to use them is important.

The balance between descriptive writing and critical writing will vary depending on the nature of the assignment and the level of your studies. Some level of descriptive writing is generally necessary to support critical writing. More sophisticated criticality is generally required at higher levels of study with less descriptive content. You will continue to develop your critical writing skills as you progress through your course.

Descriptive Writing and Critical Writing

Descriptive Writing
Critical Writing
Examples of Critical Writing

Descriptive writing demonstrates the knowledge you have of a subject, and your knowledge of what other people say about that subject. Descriptive writing often responds to questions framed as ‘what’ , ‘where’ , ‘who’ and ‘when’ .

Descriptive writing might include the following:

Description of what something is or what it is about (an account, facts, observable features, details): a topic, problem, situation, or context of the subject under discussion.
Description of where it takes place (setting and context), who is involved and when it occurs.
Re-statement or summary of what others say about the topic.
Background facts and information for a discussion.

Description usually comes before critical content so that the reader can understand the topic you are critically engaging with.

Critical writing requires you to apply interpretation, analysis, and evaluation to the descriptions you have provided. Critical writing often responds to questions framed as ‘how’ or ‘why’ . Often, critical writing will require you to build an argument which is supported by evidence.

Some indicators of critical writing are:

Investigation of positive and negative perspectives on ideas
Supporting ideas and arguments with evidence, which might include authoritative sources, data, statistics, research, theories, and quotations
Balanced, unbiased appraisal of arguments and counterarguments/alternative viewpoints
Honest recognition of the limitations of an argument and supporting evidence
Plausible, rational, convincing, and well-reasoned conclusions

Critical writing might include the following:

Applying an idea or theory to different situations or relate theory to practice. Does the idea work/not work in practice? Is there a factor that makes it work/not work? For example: 'Smith's (2008) theory on teamwork is effective in the workplace because it allows a diverse group of people with different skills to work effectively'.
Justifying why a process or policy exists. For example: 'It was necessary for the nurse to check the patient's handover notes because...'
Proposing an alternative approach to view and act on situations. For example: 'By adopting a Freirian approach, we could view the student as a collaborator in our teaching and learning'. Or: 'If we had followed the NMC guidelines we could have made the patient feel calm and relaxed during the consultation'.
Discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of an idea/theory/policy. Why does this idea/theory/policy work? Or why does this idea not work? For example: 'Although Smith's (2008) theory on teamwork is useful for large teams, there are challenges in applying this theory to teams who work remotely'.
Discussion of how the idea links to other ideas in the field (synthesis). For example: 'the user experience of parks can be greatly enhanced by examining Donnelly's (2009) customer service model used in retail’.
Discussion of how the idea compares and contrasts with other ideas/theories. For example: ‘The approach advocated by the NMC differs in comparison because of factor A and factor C’.
Discussion of the ‘’up-to-datedness” and relevance of an idea/theory/policy (its currency). For example: 'although this approach was successful in supporting the local community, Smith's model does not accommodate the needs of a modern global economy'.
Evaluating an idea/theory/policy by providing evidence-informed judgment. For example: 'Therefore, May's delivery model should be discontinued as it has created significant issues for both customers and staff (Ransom, 2018)'.
Creating new perspectives or arguments based on knowledge. For example: 'to create strong and efficient buildings, we will look to the designs provided by nature. The designs of the Sydney Opera House are based on the segments of an orange (Cook, 2019)'.

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Critical Thinking Essays – Examples, Topics, & Guide

Critical thinking is an essential skill everybody can master. It improves the quality of people’s academic, professional, and personal lives. This skill lets you analyze new information and view things from different perspectives. But what is it, and how do you develop it? What do you do if you have a critical thinking essay assignment?

Our experts will answer these questions and many more. Additionally, they will provide tips that will help you in the future and aid in writing your academic papers. You’ll read about the critical thinking paper format, browse various topics, and discover high-quality critical thinking essay examples.

🧠 What Is Critical Thinking?

🧩 Basics of Critical Thinking Essays
⚠️ Fallacies in Critical Thinking
📑 Essay Structure
💡 Paper Topics
🌟 Essay Examples

🔗 References

Critical thinking lets you approach any issue logically and rationally. The references to this term go back to the Greek philosophers Socrates and Plato. It enables you to draw connections between ideas and events, interpret them, evaluate, and analyze information. In the end, you’ll find it easier to determine whether something is true or false. You also see the bigger picture and present your ideas more cohesively.

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. – Ralph Waldo Emerson.

🧩 The Basics of Critical Thinking Essays

Working on your critical thinking will reap great rewards for your academic and daily life. Here are the changes and improvements you may notice for yourself:

What Is a Critical Thinking Essay?

A critical thinking essay has students analyze works from an author’s point of view. You can assess movies, poems, paintings, books, and other pieces of content in these papers. This academic paper lets students hone their analytical skills. The essay focuses a lot on how students interpret the meaning of the assessed work.

Unlike different types of essays and academic writing, this one doesn’t involve expressing personal subjective opinions. You can describe the subject of the study, detailing its core ideas and effectiveness. Your paper should make a coherent argument based on specific examples.

The Critical Thinking Process

As you can see, critical thinking skills are vital to your academic, professional, and personal growth. They come in handy not only in the college environment but also in improving the quality of your daily life .

The internet and social media are filled with misinformation and fabrications. Critical thinking makes it easier to navigate this sea of half-truths. Several steps can help you develop this skill.

Find the problem . Identify the issue you’re trying to solve. Ask what happened, why, what assumptions you’ve made, and how it can be solved at first glance. Clearing these details makes it easier to pursue the next steps.
Do your research. Once you establish what’s wrong, identify its causes. Find out why it happened, who is responsible, and what the outcome can be. Use as many sources as you can to see the whole picture .
Establish data’s relevance. After you’ve gathered enough facts, check the credibility of the sources. Look only for information that’s relevant to your issue. It will help you reach the best conclusion.
Ask questions. Your decision should be unbiased. It can be achieved by questioning your assumptions, possible variables, various perspectives, and points of view you might have ignored. These aspects make your thought process more logical and less personal.
Search for the best solution. To achieve this, connect the causes and effects of the problem. Find the best way to address it by assessing the gathered facts. Often, this process isn’t as straightforward, as there are too many factors to consider.
Present it. Next, present your solution to the interested parties. Sometimes, you have several equally good solutions to propose. Keep testing them one by one until you find the right match.
Assess your choice. Finally, inspect how well your solution worked. It may be a huge success but is equally likely to fail wholly or partially. You can still learn valuable things from this experience.

12 Essential Critical Thinking Questions

We would also like to cover 12 helpful tips for assessing all types of information. Practice them, and you’ll soon be able to improve your critical thinking skills.

How did you learn this?
How would you approach this issue?
Do you agree or disagree with the author?
Would you change your mind when faced with new facts?
Are there more than two sides to this problem?
Did you do thorough research?
What would be an ideal outcome?
What is the other side of this argument?
How can you stop this problem from occurring?
Why is this an issue in the first place?
Whom can this problem affect the most?
How can you tell if something works or not?

📑 Critical Thinking Essay Structure

You can write a critical thinking essay by yourself when you are familiar with the writing process and logical fallacies. We’ve prepared this segment to make your work as effective as possible. Here, we will go through the stages of a standard critical thinking essay and what to include in each of them. Besides, after reading it, you won’t have issues writing thesis statements .

How to Start a Critical Thinking Essay?

Like all essays, papers on critical thinking begin with an introduction. Here, you provide basic information about your subject, its origin, and its significance. Always start with a hook sentence that contains a fact, a quote, a statistic, or an interesting question. It’s your way of teasing what the critical thinking paper is about.

Introduction: Background and Thesis

The introductory part of your critical thinking paper tells readers what it will be about. Here, you also explain the subject of your paper and why it’s crucial. Provide exciting background data so that people understand the topic. End with a thesis statement that introduces the rest of your writing. Here are some tips to make it perfect:

Don’t go into much detail . A good introduction should disclose the right amount of information that makes people read more. Ideally, an intro looks like a teaser for a movie you’re about to see.
Explain the topic in plain terms . Write the introduction from the perspective of someone who knows nothing about the paper’s main subject. You can never assume that everybody is on the same page as you.
Stay brief . Don’t get carried away; trim this part until it’s about 250 words long. Edit and rewrite until you get a snippet of the paper in a couple of paragraphs.

The three best tips for your thesis statement.

Body Paragraphs

After you finish the previous part, it’s time to present your arguments in the body. This section can be divided into several segments. The first paragraph summarizes the work or a concept you’re assessing without personal opinions. The second one contains your evaluation, including the strong and weak points.

There are several things to consider when writing this part of the critical thinking paper:

Look for controversies and biases. A good critical essay should uncover biases and controversial statements made by an author. Point them out even if you enjoy the work, as this is a matter of fact.
Establish inconsistencies and fallacies. Nobody can be 100% logical all the time. To make your paper more solid, look for errors or inconsistent arguments.
Find points of connection. Finally, look for things you agree with about the author. This way, you’ll add authenticity to your work and make it stand out among other submitted papers.

The conclusive part of the essay reinforces the content of the introduction and body paragraphs . It tells readers what makes the subject of your paper unique and worth discussing. Here, you summarize the strong and weak points of the topic. Tell your audience about the personal effect it had or how it inspired you.

There are several things you can do to write a better conclusion:

Reread the entire paper. This way, you can reflect on the text and include the right focal points in the final part. Do this several times until you find the right words for the conclusion.
Share your thoughts . The final part should contain your general opinion about the assessed subject. You can agree or disagree with its author and provide several ways to improve or change things.
Reinforce the significance of the evaluated work . Recognize why the person’s work influences a particular field and how it can be used in further studies.

How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay: Key Takeaways

To start a critical essay, you need a solid central argument. Once you have one, collect information from reliable sources. Next, you develop a thesis statement and draft an outline. Then, you will have everything necessary to start writing your assignment’s introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

💡 Critical Thinking Paper Topics

If you still struggle with finding the right theme for your work, don’t worry. We’d like to introduce a list of critical essay topics and questions. It’s bound to have exciting and inspirational ideas that can serve as inspiration or the subject of your academic papers.

Should college education be free for particular majors?
What are the benefits of social work for lawbreakers?
Is psychology a real discipline , or is it made up?
Theme of loss in Islands in the Stream .
Show how the movie The Night in Lisbon depicts immigration.
A reflection on the fall of Troy .
What can people learn from stoic philosophy?
Leading causes of eating disorders .
The role of racism in university admissions.
Can peer pressure be beneficial?
Discuss the main ideas of The Pickwick Papers .
Can we stop global warming?
Is there a formula for an Oscar-winning movie?
An examination of ethnic and gender stereotypes in British songs.
The leading causes of Roman decline.
Was America founded on the wrong ideas?
Analyze the portrayal of Asian Americans in modern movies.
What are the main factors of developing a pack mentality?
The influence of teachers on children’s education.
What are the main pitfalls of sex education in US schools?
Does art therapy help alleviate symptoms of PTSD?
Is comedy a dying art?
Analyze the history of Imperial Japan .
Primary factors that lead to alcoholism .
How is womanhood depicted in Anna Karenina ?
Why are people obsessed with The Sopranos ?
Ways to clean plastic from the ocean .
Evaluate the portrayal of Atticus Finch by Gregory Peck.
Why do people fail to learn from historical mistakes?
The effect of abusive relationships on children .
Analyze the influence of book titles on reader expectations.
Why are people fascinated by dangerous animals?
How do problem-solving skills help with team management?
What are the ethical implications of animal testing?
Should everybody get a college education?
The main outcomes of WW1.
Was the USSR set up for failure?
Describe how justice is portrayed in Les Miserables .
Evaluate the efficiency of green technology .
Why do some people have trouble with decision-making?

🌟 Critical Thinking Writing Examples

Finally, we would like to show several critical thinking essay examples. Reading them will give you a better understanding of how to begin writing your work and which direction to choose.

Critical Thinking in Educational Psychology Teaching students about making rational decisions is one of the main goals of education. It’s vital to foster critical thinking, which is a handy skill to have in modern society. Nowadays, these efforts are justified by the need to navigate vast data streams and make thoughtful decisions about their reliability. However, certain controversies are involved in its theoretical and practical use, especially about how schools teach people about critical thinking and the result of their efforts. This paper aims to assess the framework of issues related to critical thinking and ways of improving its teaching in educational psychology.

Helpful tips for writing your critical thinking essay.

Mass Media: Critical Thinking Skills, Images, and Stereotypes Being able to think critically lets you question your beliefs and any new information. It makes your thinking clear and rational, allowing you to see logical connections between facts and use them to form solid arguments. Reason lets you master this process through active research instead of passive observation. It’s crucial in the modern world and its oversaturation with information. The rise of fake news makes it worthwhile to avoid provocations and see events for what they are. You’ll need analysis, creative thinking, interpretation, judgment, problem-solving, and reasoning to make better decisions.
Critical Thinking in Nursing Care Critical thinking is one of the essential skills when it comes to patient care. It lets you come to the right conclusions through the use of such tools as analysis, consideration, interpretation, evidence, and methodology. Major theories and components are crucial for making effective decisions. One of them is the ability of nurses to understand and solve issues through rationalization. All while following established rules and guidelines. They improve their results and create a safer work environment.

We wish you the best of luck writing your superb critical thinking papers. Be sure to practice our tips and try our handy thesis statement generator ! Also, feel free to share our guide with friends.

Defining Critical Thinking. – Edward M. Glaser, Foundation for Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking Skills. – SkillsYouNeed
Common Fallacies (or Errors) in Reasoning. – Miami Dade College
5 Top Critical Thinking Skills (And How to Improve Them). – Jennifer Herrity, Indeed
13 Easy Steps to Improve Your Critical Thinking Skills. – Bernard Marr, Forbes
How Using Critical Thinking Can Lead to Professional Growth. – Khushi Dalmia, Emeritus
Avoiding Errors in Reasoning. – UCC
How to Write a Critical Analysis Essay. – MasterClass
Critical Thinking for Critical Writing. – Julia Lane, Simone Fraser University
Critical Analysis Template. – Keiran Rankin and Sara Wolfe, Thompson Rivers University

🧩 Critical Thinking Essays

Article critique.

Explain the importance of valid and reliable research in professional practice A valid research abides by the principles of research by taking validity as a…

Safe Spaces for Marginalized Students

Introduction and Claim Safe spaces refer to the institutions within colleges and universities that offer support and cater for the needs of marginalized groups (Woodson…

The Creative is Critical and the Critical is Creative

From the perspective of scientific skepticism, being critical is a fundamental element of thinking and applying the criteria and evidence in reference to the respective…

Critical Thinking Case Two

Case Questions Question 1 The classic signs of Myocardial Infarction that Mr. Jones experienced include excruciating chest pain radiated pain to the jaw and radiated…

Fallacies and Cognitive Biases

Sociocentrism can be broadly defined as the belief that one’s social group’s way of thinking and articulating ideas is right and superior to others way…

Decision-making Biases and Pitfalls

Notably, it is normal for human beings to make different mistakes in their decision-making processes. In most cases, cognitive biases have been established to be…

Ethical System

Our decisions in life determine the actions we take on a daily basis. However, arrival to the decisions on the other side is determined by…

Patterns of Irrational or Unethical Decision Making

Overview The four patterns of unethical or irrational decision making provide various perspectives under which several issues can be established. According to Paul and Elder…

Introduction A group or a team can be defined as the gathering of two or more persons who are united in pursuit of a specific…

11 laws of the Fifth Discipline

Peter M. Senge’s 11 laws of the Fifth Discipline System Thinking fosters sustainability and builds a shared vision aimed at improving team learning as well…

Brief EPortfolio Reflection

Context in Which Creative Individuals Frame Their Practice Component A The context in which creative individuals frame their practice varies widely according to the variation…

Critical Thinking Case

Question 1 Insulin is a component in the body that is produced by the pancreases to regulate the levels of glucose in the body to…

Interdisciplinary Learning and Research Thread

Advantages Academic and interdisciplinary work approach is a strategy that helps to understand diverse knowledge from various fields. Based on this cross-thematic interpretation of the…

The root cause analysis

Every organization faces recurrent and one-time problems. Solving these problems is possible by understanding what caused the issues. Identifying the root cause requires a detailed…

Principle of charity

The principle points that when you are criticizing an opponent’s standing, you should take an effort to understand their side of it and only rebut…

The concept of groupthink

The public phrase “two heads are better than one” has been challenged about decision-making. Groupthink is a term that was first created by Irving Janis…

My type of temperament

According to my Jung Typology Test results, my personality type is INTJ (Humanmetrics.com), which means Introvert (47%), Intuitive (13%), Thinking (28%), and Judging (41%), which…

Philosopher’s way

The philosopher’s way helps explore the significance of employing the use of critical thinking, the profound ideas and the use of analytical tools in the…

Critical thinking and ethics

Critical thinking is that type of thinking that calls for reasoned judgments rather than accepting things as they are. In critical thinking, one questions the…

The creative is critical, and the critical is creative

Creativity refers to the art of turning imaginative or rather new ideas or thoughts into reality. Creativity often features the ability to; find previously unnoticed…

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How to use critical thinking essay samples to create my own paper?

You may use our samples if you are working on an essay and do not have enough skills or practice. In such a way, you may use our perfect quality critical thinking paper examples as writing guidance or a source of ideas and resources.

Is it allowed to submit your samples as mine?

Do not submit our samples as your work since it is forbidden and may be considered cheating.

How many college papers and essay samples are there in your directory?

On our database, you may find hundreds of critical thinking essay examples for college, and we keep working on broadening our database with qualitative samples.

Lots of college writing assignments aim to encourage objective analysis among students. Therefore, when writing a critical thinking essay, learners must demonstrate their ability to accurately interpret and evaluate the issue. So, the best way to approach the task is to access the professional storehouse of EssayWriter that covers various inspirational topics.

Essay on Critical Thinking to Prevent Mind Boundaries

Critical thinking is a skill essential not to falling into the trap of disinformation. It is related to the logic that helps to consider alternative systems of thought before concluding. So, a critical thinker always studies resources by asking questions to gather relevant information for studies. While the importance of possessing analytical and rational thinking is crucial, the process of improving such skills is quite challenging.

As a writer of an essay about critical thinking, you must strive to be well-informed on a subject to make good judgments. Only a truth-seeking attitude can help to follow the evidence, interpret that data to solve a problem, and present the findings in a compelling yet systematic manner. It is a hard task to reject your own opinion and pursue truth through facts.

Free Essay on Critical Thinking Can Make You a Brilliant Writer

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Push the Limits of Your Creativity

Skimming critical thinking essay examples for college students is a great method to encourage new insights and approaches for your paper. Determine how to use your bright ideas to analyze the main issue without bias. In the United States, learners have found an alternative and more practical technique for tickling creativity and gaining knowledge with little effort. It is high time for all to access our free database and enjoy the process of writing.

Discover Right Topic and Structure Principles

Today, people devote their precious time only to worthwhile reading. So, if you haven’t decided on what to write about, our samples can be at hand. Don’t underestimate the importance of topic selection. Look through hundreds of gripping and valuable matters about current issues and discover the most suitable one for you and your audience.

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Critical Thinking Papers Online

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Critical thinking

Critical writing.

Students sometimes receive feedback such as "your essay is too descriptive" or "you need to show more critical analysis". While some description may be necessary – for instance if you are providing background information – most university assignments require you to produce work that is analytical and critical in its approach.

Your tutors want to know what you think

Your writing needs to show your interpretation of the evidence and source material, how you have used that information to demonstrate your understanding, and your subsequent position on the topic. Being critical in your writing means engaging in academic debates and research happening in your subject area.

The sources you select, the way you show how they agree or disagree with other pieces of evidence, and the way you structure your argument will all show your thought process and how you have understood the information you have read.

Use evidence to strengthen your position

Always keep your reader in mind and try to anticipate the questions they would ask — refer back to the Critical thinking questions (PDF) to help you with this. You can use evidence to help you strengthen your position, answer readers' questions, and "neutralise" opposing points of view.

Remember to keep descriptive statements to a minimum — there is no need to provide large amounts of background or historical information.

Make sure you move from description to analysis and evaluation . Give your interpretation of the facts, and explain the significance, consequences and implications of the statements you have made.

See our advice on structuring a paragraph for more information on how to attach analysis and evaluation to each point you make.

Descriptive vs critical writing examples

The following examples demonstrate the difference between descriptive writing and critical/analytical writing. They are taken from: Cottrell, S. 2003. The Study Skills Handbook . 2nd ed. London: Palgrave.

State what happened vs identify its significance

To write critically you will need to not only describe what happened, but also identify the significance of what happened.

Descriptive example

"The data shows that the incidence (new cases) of asthma rates in children under 15 years old increased rapidly from 1977, peaking in 1993 and then declining, though rates still remain significantly higher than pre-1976 levels."

Critical example

"The trend, from 1977 until 1993, of a rapid rise in rates of asthma diagnosis in children under 15 years, suggests that one of the causal factors was particularly prevalent during this time, but has since declined in importance or effect."

Explain the theory vs show its relevance

Descriptive writing will explain what the theory says. To write critically you need to go further and show why that theory is relevant.

"Carl Rogers' theory of a person-centred approach focuses on the freedom of the individual to determine what values should be used to measure successful personal outcomes or benefit, and is particularly relevant for social workers when wanting to take into account the diverse needs of the client group."

"Carl Rogers' theory of a person-centred approach is particularly suitable for social workers wanting to work with a client group with diverse needs because it allows the client to determine what values should be used to measure successful outcomes, rather than those externally determined by, for example, the service, state or dominant culture in society."

Note the method used vs indicate its appropriateness

Rather than simply noting the method used, which is the descriptive approach, a critical writer will show how appropriate that method was.

"In addition to competency-based questions, the candidates were asked to complete an in-tray exercise, which required them to allocate different priority levels to tasks, as an appropriate method to measure their likely performance in the actual job."

"In addition to competency-based questions, candidates were asked to complete an in-tray task prioritisation exercise. This was because it was considered a more effective way to measure likely performance in the actual role as the majority of the job would involve similar tasks, with little interaction with customers and therefore less requirement for highly developed communication skills."

You can apply our critical thinking model to your own work; use our Judging your own work (PDF) questions to help you decide if your writing is critical. These questions will take you through the description-analysis-evaluation stages. Take a look at further examples of descriptive writing vs. critical/analytical writing (PDF)

Essay About Critical Thinking: Top 5 Examples and Prompts

Critical thinking refers to our ability to reason; if you want to write an essay about critical thinking, here are helpful essay examples and prompts for you.

Critical thinkers can understand connections between opinions or ideas and detect reasoning inconsistencies. They can also identify, analyze, and solve problems systematically since they rigorously question ideas instead of immediately accepting them as facts. However, no one can think critically all the time. Our emotions, beliefs, and current mindset affect our ability to reason.

To better understand how critical thinking applies to our lives, below are samples you need to read:

1. The Value of Teaching Critical Thinking by Kenny Ward

2. how positive thinking relates to learners by jeanne morales, 3. barriers to critical thinking by olga george, 4. the difference between creative and critical thinking by eduardo ortega, 5. critical thinking philosophy by anonymous on cram.com, 1. what is school’s role in developing critical thinking, 2. the relationship between ethics and critical thinking, 3. leaders in unifying and dividing a country, 4. critical thinking in the medical field, 5. critical thinking, decision making, and stress management, 6. the effect of social media on critical thinking skills, 7. barriers to having critical thinking skills.

“Critical thinking helps you to imagine yourself in others… and to develop your ability to listen to them with an open mind, even if their views are contrary to you.”

Ward’s essay talks about the importance of teaching critical thinking. To think critically means to understand yourself better. Doing so will help you accept and learn from your mistakes. You will also better connect with the people around you because you’ll be able to put yourself in their shoes. You’ll learn to use your mind over your emotions in critical thinking.

Check out these essays about beliefs .

“Metacognition… makes me think that I don’t really have all the answers to the world, and need to keep on exercising my brain to capture knowledge, and progressively start increasing my learning, because there is a lot of stuff out there, to not be ignorant and learn.”

Morales discusses the reality that students are fond of having their “free time” but won’t use it to stimulate their brains. Further, she explains that students today cannot control their use of technology, thereby direly affecting their learning.

It’s vital that students be aware of learning, be open-minded, and ask questions to get answers. The author believes that asking questions aids a person in developing knowledge. Additionally, for Morales, it’s best to focus on one thing to avoid distractions. Because when a person multitasks, especially students, their attention gets divided, and their tasks will take longer to finish.

“To overcome this, we can try to not rely only on the first thing you hear and to do our research and ask questions when needed to gather more information.”

George’s essay tackles the barriers to his critical thinking. The first barrier is that he relies on mainstream media which has its own agenda. This is dangerous, as they can intentionally spread misinformation for their gain. The internet is also unreliable since it can fabricate data.

The second barrier he talks about is the ignorance or lack of details about a report or information. He explains that not having enough information is difficult for a critical thinker. An individual can come to the wrong conclusion about a specific story or event if the information is lacking.

“When you are thinking creatively, you are generating a new set of ideas… When you are thinking critically, you are making choices from ideas someone has already created.”

Ortega discusses what separates creative and critical thinking by laying down relevant quotes and examples in his essay.

For him, creative thinking means creating, generating, or bringing out new possibilities. Creative thinking is nonjudgemental and expansive, for you must think broadly. In contrast, critical thinking is about the ideas you already made or choosing from the ideas you already have. Therefore, critical thinking needs to be analytical, judgemental, and selective.

“I have learned that one of the most important aspects of critical thinking is to decide what you are aiming to achieve and then make a decision based on a range of possibilities.”

The author describes critical thinking as the ability to reason and be an active learner. He uses it as a crucial step in his decision-making process and urges others to do the same. He also mentions that people can use their “wasted time” productively by thinking critically.

7 Prompts About Critical Thinking

Here are 7 helpful writing prompts to get you started on your next essay.

Essay about critical thinking: What is school’s role in developing critical thinking?

Critical thinking is learned, making schools primarily responsible for children developing their critical thinking abilities. In your essay, you can include why schools should pay attention to their students’ critical thinking.

Next, add existing operations schools follow to progress their student’s thought processes. Then discuss steps in developing their student’s analyzation skills as it can significantly impact their future decision-making.

While critical thinking aids us in reaching a rational decision, ethics or values help us land a morally-correct one. Create an essay that argues critical thinking needs ethics and vice versa. Explain why, and write about their relationship. You may also offer examples by sharing your experience or personal observations.

Do you want to be an influential essay writer who takes a clear stand on a specific subject? See our guide on how to write an argumentative essay .

Writing an essay about critical thinking doesn’t mean you should only talk about what critical thinking means. In this prompt, you can demonstrate your critical thinking by showing your prowess in politics.

It doesn’t have to be controversial or jargon-filled. You can pick leaders’ qualities that you know will help unify or divide a country. For example, you can point out current problems and recommend solutions that a leader with a certain quality can understand and provide.

Working in the medical field requires a lot of critical thinking. People in this field deal with their lives. It’s an intriguing prompt that will allow you to put yourself in a professional position and let your readers understand their points of view.

A great example is putting yourself in a position of a doctor who needs to choose between saving the mother or the baby inside the mother’s womb – what critical thinking should the doctor do? What should he prioritize: the hospital’s protocol, law, family’s wishes, etc.?

Writing an essay about the relationship between critical thinking, decision-making, and stress management can be engaging, as many readers will relate to your prompt. How is critical thinking affected by stress? Should we make decisions when we’re stressed?

Via this prompt, you can convince your readers that it’s vital to develop critical thinking skills continuously.

Due to today’s widespread digitalization, many people spend most of their time on social media. With this prompt, you can discuss the possible connection between diminished critical thinking skills and time spent on social networking sites. Then explain how this can be avoided.

Since critical thinking can be learned through consistent practice, why do you think some individuals, though super smart, did not attain the level of a critical thinker? You can write about the possible barriers to achieving critical thinking skills and explain why they became hindrances.

Here’s a tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. For example, write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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Critical Thinking: Definition and Analysis

This essay about the significance of critical thinking in various aspects of life, from academia to everyday interactions. It emphasizes the importance of analysis and synthesis in fostering intellectual autonomy and resilience. Through examples in different contexts, it highlights how critical thinking enables individuals to navigate complex information, evaluate arguments, and cultivate intellectual humility.

How it works

Critical thinking, a term often echoed in scholarly circles, workplaces, and beyond, is a skill of immense significance across various dimensions of life. It serves as the cornerstone of education, problem-solving, decision-making, and personal development. However, despite its ubiquitous presence, the concept of critical thinking remains somewhat enigmatic, with its definition subject to interpretation and nuanced understanding. In this exploration, we delve into the depths of critical thinking, endeavoring to unravel its essence, dissect its components, and illuminate its implications.

At its essence, critical thinking can be described as the ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information or arguments in a systematic and reasoned manner.

It goes beyond mere acceptance or rejection of ideas; rather, it involves a rigorous examination of evidence, assumptions, and logical coherence. Critical thinkers engage in reflective and independent thinking, questioning assumptions, exploring alternative perspectives, and arriving at well-informed conclusions. Essentially, critical thinking acts as intellectual armor, equipping individuals with the tools to navigate the complex landscape of information and ideas in today’s world.

One of the foundational elements of critical thinking is analysis. Analysis entails breaking down complex ideas or issues into their constituent parts, closely examining them, and discerning patterns, relationships, or implications. It serves as the scaffolding for reasoned judgments by providing a framework for understanding. During analysis, evidence is scrutinized, biases are uncovered, the credibility of sources is assessed, and underlying assumptions are revealed. Through this process, a deeper understanding of the subject matter is attained, enabling individuals to evaluate its strengths and weaknesses more effectively.

However, analysis in critical thinking is not limited to deconstruction; it also involves synthesis – the integration of disparate elements into a coherent whole. Synthesis represents the culmination of analytical inquiry, where insights gleaned from individual pieces of information or perspectives are merged to form a comprehensive understanding. It is the creative aspect of critical thinking, where innovative ideas or solutions emerge from the interplay of diverse viewpoints. Thus, analysis and synthesis work in tandem to foster holistic comprehension and innovative thinking.

To underscore the significance of analysis in critical thinking, one can examine its application across various contexts. In academia, students are frequently tasked with analyzing literary texts, scientific data, historical events, or philosophical arguments. Through close examination, experimentation, or historical research, students learn to dissect complex phenomena, identify underlying themes or principles, and construct coherent interpretations. Similarly, professionals in fields such as business, law, or healthcare rely on analytical skills to dissect problems, assess risks, and formulate effective strategies. Whether it involves conducting market research, analyzing legal precedents, or diagnosing medical conditions, the ability to analyze information critically is indispensable.

Moreover, analysis in critical thinking extends beyond academic or professional domains; it permeates everyday life. Consider the deluge of information encountered through media channels, social networks, or interpersonal interactions. In an era of information overload and misinformation, the ability to analyze sources critically is paramount. Individuals must scrutinize news articles for bias, fact-check viral claims, and discern the agenda behind persuasive rhetoric. By honing analytical skills, individuals become less susceptible to manipulation and more adept at navigating the complexities of the modern world.

Furthermore, analysis in critical thinking fosters intellectual humility – the recognition of one’s fallibility and the willingness to revise beliefs in light of new evidence or perspectives. In a world marked by ideological polarization and echo chambers, intellectual humility is a rare trait. However, critical thinkers, through their commitment to rational inquiry and open-mindedness, cultivate this virtue. They recognize that truth is multifaceted and elusive, and that certainty is often illusory. Consequently, they approach arguments or viewpoints with skepticism, subjecting them to rigorous analysis before rendering judgment.

In conclusion, critical thinking, grounded in analysis, is an indispensable skill for navigating the complexities of the modern world. It empowers individuals to dissect information, evaluate arguments, and synthesize insights, fostering intellectual autonomy and resilience. Whether in academia, professional endeavors, or everyday life, the ability to think critically is indispensable. By honing analytical skills and nurturing intellectual humility, individuals can traverse the vast expanse of information and ideas with clarity and discernment. As dedicated practitioners of critical thinking, let us embrace the challenge of analysis, for therein lies the path to intellectual enlightenment and empowerment.

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Home Essay Examples Psychology Problem Solving

Critical Thinking And Problem Solving

Category Psychology
Topic Problem Solving

It is the most important Requirements to have a successful life in every fields.

Cause life have a lot of difficulties and if you don’t able to deal with different situations will negatively affect all your life.

Our writers can write you a new plagiarism-free essay on any topic

This skill is considered a basic strategy is to stimulate analysis, thinking, linking, hypotheses, prediction and using scientific research methods to prove their validity. The minds are raised about the existence of a specific problem that needs to be resolved and then asked to develop a solution. The method develops students to deal with difficulties in a self-reliant manner, and reduces their dependency on others, and produces a generation capable of thinking, correcting and evaluating, We are in dire need of the skills of thinking, under the rule of old educational systems that are no longer suited to the information and technological revolution in our world. This is what stands between us and developed countries that have made great strides in the field of modern education methods and produced innovative creative generations.

Ennis (1962) distinguishes between critical thinking and problem solving by focusing on the starting and ending points of each. Critical thinking begins with a conclusion or information. The central question is, ‘What is the value or validity of the thing?’ While problem solving begins with a question: How to solve it?

Critical thinking is not a strategy as it is for problem solving or make decision, because it consists not of processes and methods.

The Properties of Critical Thinking

Do not jump directly to results
Discussion of opinions within an environment where the opinion and opinion of the other is accepted and based on dialogue.
Objectivity and distance from bias and intolerance.
Observation, examination and scrutiny.
Review of many of the views of the human mind on the issue studied.
Identify strengths and weaknesses of information
Based on a solid foundation of information and knowledge already existing in the person, as well as in-depth research on the issue studied by scientific research tools.

‘Life is a tragedy for those who live with their feelings, but it is like comedy for thinkers’.

This quote to Jean de la Prober is somewhat radical, and according to the assumptions of cognitive psychology, our views reflect our feelings.

Most people believe that our feelings are independent of our ideas and precedes them. The truth is that they are the product of our ideas. This costs a great hardship for man because it makes him responsible for all his behaviors and actions, but at the same time liberates him and gives him the ability to choose his ideas and views. When we can choose and direct our ideas, we will realize and can control our living conditions, improve decision and making processes.

Man becomes a critical and mental thinker capable of dealing with problems when he relies on reason rather than passion, can evaluate a wide range of ideas and views, is open to all alternative interpretations, and willing to accept any new results. Critical thinking is also willing to re-evaluate its information, able to avoid hasty judgments, deviate from all personal prejudices, and be ready to consider all reasonable possibilities. This does not mean in any way that we underestimate the importance of the feelings we feel but is just a simple way to balance them with our cognitive abilities.

Learning to think critically or solve the problem takes a long time and needs perseverance and practice. But first, one must know the steps of critical thinking and how to apply them.

Identifying the problem is the first step in the way of critical thinking; sometimes one reaches a certain stage where it concludes that there is no problem, but it is just a misunderstanding. But in the event of a problem it must be precisely identified then, and consider all the positive and negative aspects involved
Solve the problem and hope it from different angles. Once you identify the problem and analyze it through a different set of views, we will know whether it is solvable or not, and whether we can address it alone or need help from others. Sometimes we arrive at an immediate decision on the problem once it has been contemplated from many angles, and we may sometimes discover that we have a biased view, or a narrow horizon of view.
Brainstorming and finding possible solutions.

In this step, one contemplates several possible ideas for solving the problem, then sets it down to choose the best one later. Of course, the more options you have, the more likely you are to achieve the desired results.

Choose the solution most appropriate to our situation and circumstances. In certain situations, the circumstances under which we are experiencing may require a solution. It is therefore necessary to spend some time choosing the right solution, as there is no magic solution suitable for all possible circumstances.
Acting is the fifth and final step on the path of critical thinking. At this stage, man seeks to implement the solution he has envisaged, even if it involves acceptance of his present state and moving forward in his life. So instead of looking at the problems and challenges that face us as obstacles we cannot overcome, we can always consider them as opportunities to refine our critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Our confidence in ourselves and our abilities increases with every problem we can overcome. Critical thinking not only helps us deal with the challenges ahead more skillfully, but also expands our thinking and gives us a different perspective to reflect on things.
Critical thinking requires judgment by the individual who practices it.
Critical thinking requires skill in the use of rules of logic and inference of things.
Critical thinking involves a set of thinking skills that can be learned, trained and refined.
Keep a memo to record creative ideas even if they seem far from the most logical solutions; keeping them can the individual to refer to them.
Practice logical puzzles, and some games that develop logical thinking, and stimulate mental activity.

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30 Compare & Contrast Essays Examples To Ignite Critical Thinking

August 30, 2023 // by Lauren Du Plessis

Get ready to transport your students into a universe of insightful comparisons and contrasts, where they’ll get to confront fascinating juxtapositions and make analyses across a wide array of subjects. From digital classrooms to ancient mythologies, from health debates to sports rivalries, our collection of thirty compare-and-contrast essay examples aims to ignite curiosity, stimulate critical thinking, and foster a love for interdisciplinary learning in your students. Ready to promote rich discussions and inspire profound reflections? Let’s go!

1. Traditional Classes vs. Online Classes

This topic is ideal for fostering critical thinking in the changing and ever-changing landscape of education. Task your learners with crafting a vibrant discourse on the pros and cons of face-to-face instruction against the convenience and flexibility of online learning.

Learn More: Study Moose

2. Books vs. E-books

This comparison teases the tactile joy of reading physical books against the technological advantages of e-books. By getting your students to cover this topic, you can prompt them to consider the impact that technology has on their reading habits.

Learn More: Scribd

3. Democracy vs. Monarchy

An exploration of political structures, this topic is an essential primer for getting your students to understand global politics! Invite them to craft an essay in which they compare and contrast the complexities of democratic vs. monarchy-based governance.

4. Apple vs. Microsoft

With this topic, a technological duel is in store! Invite your learners to engage in an analytical debate involving the innovative leaps and bounds of two giants: Apple and Microsoft. This exciting inquiry will help you foster a better understanding of industry competition and technological creativity.

Learn More: Pro Essays

5. World War I vs. World War II

The tumultuous periods of World War I and II are perfect grounds for your students to explore historical cause and effect. Task them with analyzing the geopolitical factors that led to these monumental conflicts, and the subsequent shaping of modern history.

Learn More: Paper Owl

6. Vegetarian vs. Non-Vegetarian Diets

A culinary conundrum is the perfect way to sum up this debate topic! Have your learners weigh the ethical, environmental, and health-related aspects of vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets. This topic will lead them to consider the broader implications of their dietary choices.

Learn More: Ivy Panda

7. Basketball vs. Football

Sports fans unite! This comparison will draw your students into the vibrant world of basketball and football. Encourage them to analyze the unique rules, cultures, and excitement that define each game; sparking a passion for sportsmanship.

Learn More: Samploon

8. Shakespeare’s Tragedies vs. Comedies

Invite your kiddos to explore the literary genius of Shakespeare. Invite them to craft essays comparing his tragic and comedic masterpieces- unraveling the human condition’s contrasting emotions and universal truths.

Learn More: Mega Essays

9. Private Schools vs. Public Schools

How about exploring different education systems with your pupils? Encourage them to compare and contrast private and public education to ignite a debate that goes beyond mere preferences to socio-economic considerations.

10. Living at Home vs. Living on Campus

This topic is great for inspiring thoughts on independence, family connections, and the transition to adulthood. Simply invite your students to reflect on the merits and challenges of living at home versus living on campus.

Learn More: PhD Essay

11. Marvel vs. DC Comics

Superheroes provide more than just entertainment. This imaginative topic offers endless opportunities for literary analysis and fun! By examining the worlds of Marvel and DC Comics, your students can explore narratives, iconic characters, and creativity.

12. Greek Mythology vs. Roman Mythology

Ancient myths provide fertile ground for learning. To expose your students to different cultural interpretations of divinity and human nature, prompt them to delve into Greek and Roman mythology

Learn More: Edu Zaurus

13. Physical Health vs. Mental Health

With this topic, our health is up for debate! Encourage your students to investigate the intricacies of physical and mental well-being to foster a compassionate understanding of the importance of overall wellness in today’s society.

Learn More: Docsity

14. City Life vs. Country Life

Urban and rural living provides an engaging dichotomy for your students to dissect. To enhance their awareness of environmental and human diversity, implore them to explore personal preferences and societal values that shape our lives.

15. Science vs. Arts

The balance between logic and creativity is at play here. Task your students with examining the connections and contrasts between the worlds of science and arts. This will help you foster an appreciation for the complexity of human intellect and expression.

Learn More: Studocu

16. Coffee vs. Tea

Brewing a delightful discussion for your students, this topic contrasts coffee and tea. Prompt them to explore cultural significance, taste preferences, and the daily rituals that these beverages play in lives around the globe.

Learn More: Study Hippo

17. Traditional vs. Digital Art

Artistic exploration is what this topic focuses on. Encourage your learners to reflect on the shifts from traditional art mediums to digital innovations; learning about the ever-evolving landscape of artistic creation and consumption in the process.

18. Climate Change vs. Global Warming

This thought-provoking environmental topic invites your students to become stewards of the Earth. Guide them in differentiating between climate change and global warming- emphasizing the importance of scientific literacy in today’s world.

19. Western Medicine vs. Traditional Medicine

Medical practices offer unmatched exploration opportunities for your students to enjoy. Lead them through the philosophies and methodologies behind Western and traditional medicine to cultivate a respect for diverse healthcare systems.

20. Introverts vs. Extroverts

Understanding different personality types is a crucial lesson for the youth of today. Invite your students to delve into the fascinating worlds of introverts and extroverts to enhance their empathy and social awareness.

Learn More: Study Corgi

21. Renting vs. Owning a Home

Real-world finance is the focus here. Guide your pupils in a comparison of renting and owning a home to equip them with practical knowledge about one of life’s major financial decisions.

Learn More: Paper Ap

22. Solar Energy vs. Wind Energy

An enlightening environmental topic awaits exploration with this essay prompt. Engage your learners in the exploration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. What a fantastic way of promoting a sense of responsibility and foresight for the planet’s future.

23. Fiction vs. Non-fiction

Literary delights await your students as they delve into this comparison. Encourage them to explore the distinctive charms of storytelling and factual writing to enrich their appreciation for both imagination and reality.

Learn More: Bartleby

24. Classical Music vs. Pop Music

Music as an art form offers your students an intriguing contrast between classical and pop genres. Guide them through a melodious exploration to foster an appreciation for musical history and contemporary trends.

Learn More: Arts Columbia

25. Mathematics vs. Literature

Challenge your learners to investigate the contrasting academic fields of mathematics and literature. This thought-provoking topic will engage their critical thinking and broaden their educational horizons.

Learn More: PDF

26. Organic Food vs. Non-Organic Food

Dive into the world of nutrition with your students. By exploring organic and non-organic farming, they’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of sustainability, health, and global food systems.

Learn More: Study Driver

27. Learning English vs. Learning Chinese

Linguistic barriers are meant to be broken! Encourage your students to compare the processes of learning English and Chinese- sparking a fascination for languages and the interconnection of cultures.

Learn More: Reddit

28. Dogs vs. Cats

A friendly rivalry between pet lovers will engage your students. Guide them through the joys and responsibilities of caring for dogs and cats to foster empathy and practical knowledge.

Learn More: Share Your Essays

29. Volunteering vs. Paid Work

Career ethics and personal growth are at the heart of this topic! Encourage them to weigh the values of volunteering versus paid work, building their understanding of societal roles and personal fulfillment.

Learn More: Understood

30. Physical Books vs. Audio Books

Reading habits evolve over time, and your students can explore this change with a thought-provoking essay. As they write, prompt them to consider the tactile joy of physical books against the convenience of audiobooks, spending time reflecting on personal preferences and technological impact.

Critical thinking definition

Critical thinking, as described by Oxford Languages, is the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgement.

Active and skillful approach, evaluation, assessment, synthesis, and/or evaluation of information obtained from, or made by, observation, knowledge, reflection, acumen or conversation, as a guide to belief and action, requires the critical thinking process, which is why it's often used in education and academics.

Some even may view it as a backbone of modern thought.

However, it's a skill, and skills must be trained and encouraged to be used at its full potential.

People turn up to various approaches in improving their critical thinking, like:

Developing technical and problem-solving skills
Engaging in more active listening
Actively questioning their assumptions and beliefs
Seeking out more diversity of thought
Opening up their curiosity in an intellectual way etc.

Is critical thinking useful in writing?

Critical thinking can help in planning your paper and making it more concise, but it's not obvious at first. We carefully pinpointed some the questions you should ask yourself when boosting critical thinking in writing:

What information should be included?
Which information resources should the author look to?
What degree of technical knowledge should the report assume its audience has?
What is the most effective way to show information?
How should the report be organized?
How should it be designed?
What tone and level of language difficulty should the document have?

Usage of critical thinking comes down not only to the outline of your paper, it also begs the question: How can we use critical thinking solving problems in our writing's topic?

Let's say, you have a Powerpoint on how critical thinking can reduce poverty in the United States. You'll primarily have to define critical thinking for the viewers, as well as use a lot of critical thinking questions and synonyms to get them to be familiar with your methods and start the thinking process behind it.

Are there any services that can help me use more critical thinking?

We understand that it's difficult to learn how to use critical thinking more effectively in just one article, but our service is here to help.

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Provide us with any details, requirements, statements that should be emphasized or particular parts of the essay writing process you struggle with.
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COMMENTS

How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay: Examples & Outline
📑 Critical Thinking Essays Examples & Formatting Tips . Formatting is another crucial aspect of every formal paper. MLA and APA are two popular formats when it comes to academic writing. They share some similarities but overall are still two different styles. Here are critical essay format guidelines that you can use as a reference:
What Is Critical Thinking?
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.
25 Critical Thinking Examples (2024)
25 Critical Thinking Examples. Critical thinking is the ability to analyze information and make reasoned decisions. It involves suspended judgment, open-mindedness, and clarity of thought. It involves considering different viewpoints and weighing evidence carefully. It is essential for solving complex problems and making good decisions.
How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay With Tips and Examples
An Example of a Critical Thinking Essay. Topic: Roles of Critical Thinking Skills. I. Introduction Sample of a Critical Thinking Essay. Critical thinking is a requirement in higher education because it reflects the level of mental preparedness of students intending to join the labor industry. In this case, essay writing is one of the strategies ...
Critical Thinking Essay: Most Exciting Examples and Topics Ideas
Critical Thinking Essay Topics and Outline Examples Essay Title 1: The Power of Critical Thinking: Developing Analytical Skills for Effective Decision-Making Thesis Statement: This essay explores the significance of critical thinking in everyday life, emphasizing the development of analytical skills, their application in decision-making, and ...
41+ Critical Thinking Examples (Definition + Practices)
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.
Critical Thinking Essay Examples
Critical thinking is the analysis of available facts, evidence, observations, and arguments to form a judgment. The list of core critical thinking skills includes observation, interpretation, analysis, inference, evaluation, explanation, and metacognition. In addition to possessing strong critical-thinking skills, one must be disposed to engage ...
How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay: Complete Guide
Critical thinking essay example. The best way to learn is to learn from examples. You will significantly improve your writing skills if you combine practical advice with a sample. One of the critical thinking essays examples that you can read below was written by a professional writer to show you how this type of essay may look. Let's check ...
175 Critical Thinking Essay Topic Ideas & Examples
Critical thinking refers to the ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information or a situation. It entails the practice of engaging in independent and reflective thinking to identify and evaluate ideas to make informed decisions. Critical Thinking and Decisions Making in Business, Management and Relationships.
Critical Thinking & Writing
Critical writing requires you to apply interpretation, analysis, and evaluation to the descriptions you have provided. Critical writing often responds to questions framed as 'how' or 'why'.Often, critical writing will require you to build an argument which is supported by evidence.. Some indicators of critical writing are:. Investigation of positive and negative perspectives on ideas
How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay Guide with Examples
This should be noted especially in academic writing and critical thinking compositions. The conclusion of an essay is like the final wrapping of a gift; it needs to be: Of the appropriate size; Fit properly. Sum up every written idea in the paper. Reflect the main theme indicated. Considering the weightiness of this essay type, we are pleased ...
Critical Thinking Essays
A critical thinking essay has students analyze works from an author's point of view. You can assess movies, poems, paintings, books, and other pieces of content in these papers. This academic paper lets students hone their analytical skills. The essay focuses a lot on how students interpret the meaning of the assessed work.
Critical Thinking Essays: Examples, Topics, & Outlines
Critical thinking is the rationally closely controlled process of aggressively and competently conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and assessing information gathered from observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication, as a guide to belief and action. It involves the scrutiny of those structures or elements of ...
Critical Thinking Essay Examples
Skimming critical thinking essay examples for college students is a great method to encourage new insights and approaches for your paper. Determine how to use your bright ideas to analyze the main issue without bias. In the United States, learners have found an alternative and more practical technique for tickling creativity and gaining ...
Critical writing
You can apply our critical thinking model to your own work; use our Judging your own work (PDF) questions to help you decide if your writing is critical. These questions will take you through the description-analysis-evaluation stages. Take a look at further examples of descriptive writing vs. critical/analytical writing (PDF)
Essay About Critical Thinking: Top 5 Examples and Prompts
3. Leaders in Unifying and Dividing a Country. Writing an essay about critical thinking doesn't mean you should only talk about what critical thinking means. In this prompt, you can demonstrate your critical thinking by showing your prowess in politics. It doesn't have to be controversial or jargon-filled.
Critical Thinking: Definition and Analysis
Essay Example: Critical thinking, a term often echoed in scholarly circles, workplaces, and beyond, is a skill of immense significance across various dimensions of life. It serves as the cornerstone of education, problem-solving, decision-making, and personal development.
Critical Thinking And Problem Solving: Essay Example, 978 words
Critical thinking requires skill in the use of rules of logic and inference of things. Critical thinking involves a set of thinking skills that can be learned, trained and refined. Keep a memo to record creative ideas even if they seem far from the most logical solutions; keeping them can the individual to refer to them.
30 Compare & Contrast Essays Examples To Ignite Critical Thinking
3. Democracy vs. Monarchy. An exploration of political structures, this topic is an essential primer for getting your students to understand global politics! Invite them to craft an essay in which they compare and contrast the complexities of democratic vs. monarchy-based governance. Learn More: Study Moose. 4.
Using Critical Thinking in Essays and other Assignments
Critical thinking, as described by Oxford Languages, is the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgement. Active and skillful approach, evaluation, assessment, synthesis, and/or evaluation of information obtained from, or made by, observation, knowledge, reflection, acumen or conversation, as a guide to belief and ...
Reflection On Critical Thinking: [Essay Example], 664 words
Critical thinking is a skill that goes beyond simply accepting information and requires individuals to analyze, evaluate, and interpret information in a more nuanced manner. One of the key benefits of critical thinking is its ability to enhance decision-making processes. By critically evaluating different options, individuals can make more ...
about Critical Thinking and Ethics: [Essay Example], 716 words
Critical thinking and ethics are two essential components of academic and professional success. The ability to critically analyze information, make informed decisions, and consider ethical implications is crucial in a wide range of fields, including business, healthcare, education, and politics.In this essay, I will explore the relationship between critical thinking and ethics, and how they ...
6 Main Types of Critical Thinking Skills (With Examples)
Critical thinking skills examples. There are six main skills you can develop to successfully analyze facts and situations and come up with logical conclusions: 1. Analytical thinking. Being able to properly analyze information is the most important aspect of critical thinking. This implies gathering information and interpreting it, but also ...