What is Critical Thinking?

- Moses Humphries -

In school, teachers often tell us to “think critically.” But what does that mean? Critical thinking isn’t just about being negative or criticizing things. It’s about looking at information closely, questioning it, and making smart decisions based on evidence and logic.

1. Asking Questions Critical thinking starts with curiosity. Instead of accepting things right away, you ask questions like: “Why is this true?” or “What evidence supports this?” Example: If someone says, “Video games make students lazy,” a critical thinker would ask, “Do all video games cause laziness, or just some? Where is the proof?” 2. Gathering Evidence A critical thinker doesn’t rely only on opinions. They look for facts, data, and examples to support or challenge an idea. Example: Instead of saying, “My friend plays games and gets bad grades,” you’d look at research studies on video games and student performance. 3. Analyzing Perspectives Critical thinking means considering different viewpoints. You try to see an issue from more than one side. Example: Video games might distract some students, but they can also improve problem-solving and teamwork skills. 4. Making Connections It’s not enough to collect facts—you need to connect them. Critical thinkers link evidence to bigger ideas, spotting patterns or contradictions. Example: If research shows both positive and negative effects of gaming, you might conclude that the impact depends on how much time students spend playing. 5. Drawing Conclusions Finally, critical thinking is about making a reasonable conclusion that is backed by logic and evidence—not just gut feelings. Example: “Video games do not automatically make students lazy; the effect depends on how responsibly they are used.” Why Critical Thinking Matters Critical thinking helps us in school, but it’s also important in real life. It makes us better problem-solvers, helps us avoid being misled by false information, and allows us to make fairer judgments. In a world full of social media, advertisements, and opinions, critical thinking acts as a filter that separates facts from noise. Quick Example Topic: “Should schools ban junk food?” Ask Questions: Why would banning junk food matter? What’s the evidence? Gather Evidence: Studies show too much junk food leads to obesity and poor concentration. Analyze Perspectives: Some argue banning it limits freedom of choice. Make Connections: Healthier diets improve focus, but strict bans may cause backlash. Conclusion: Schools should limit junk food but still allow occasional treats. Final Thoughts Critical thinking isn’t about memorizing facts it’s about how you use them. It means questioning, exploring, and connecting ideas until you reach a strong conclusion. When you think critically, you’re not just learning; you’re learning how to learn. And that’s a skill you’ll use far beyond the classroom.