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Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving

Use situational awareness and evidence-based reasoning to understand complex problems, evaluate information from diverse sources, and make sound decisions—generating creative, practical strategies that account for tradeoffs, stakeholder perspectives, and potential bias.

 

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving includes:

  • Gathering and analyzing relevant information from varied sources and people to fully understand a problem or need
  • Demonstrating situational awareness by identifying constraints and context, anticipating needs, and prioritizing next steps
  • Interpreting, summarizing, and synthesizing complex information or data—recognizing assumptions and potential bias that may affect conclusions
  • Evaluating the credibility, relevance, and limitations of evidence before drawing conclusions or recommending action
  • Generating and comparing multiple possible solutions, including “outside-the-box” options tailored to goals and constraints
  • Weighing tradeoffs, risks, and consequences to make informed, inclusive decisions using sound judgment
  • Communicating your rationale clearly — explaining decisions, actions, and recommendations with attention to stakeholder perspectives and lived experiences
  • Staying adaptable when plans change: adjusting strategies, overcoming roadblocks, and continuing progress in dynamic or fast-paced environments
  • Knowing when and how to seek help—locating expertise, asking pertinent questions, and using resources efficiently
  • Reflecting on outcomes to learn, iterate, and strengthen future problem-solving approaches

 

Resources:

Eight Habits of Effective Critical Thinkers

According to the American Management Association, the best critical thinkers practice eight particular habits when processing information, solving problems, and reaching decisions.

 

How to start thinking critically and sharpen your mind

This article explores what critical thinking is, why it's essential, the traits that define it, the specific skills involved, and how critical thinking abilities can be sharpened.