A good definition of critical thinking is the aptitude for investigating and evaluating data using reason and intellect to arrive at a common sense solution. While big vital problems obviously need people with excellent judgment to tackle them, good thinking skills are useful in all parts of life. What are some of the best ways to develop your critical thinking skills?

EVALUATION AND INFORMATION

To start, remember that one of the most important aspects of serious thinking is not just evaluating your problem but also the reliability of your information. Before you can proceed with a comprehensive look at your problem you need to have reliable and precise information. Different types of outlets or sources should be used to help with viewpoint. Don't forget to know the context of your information as well, this can be very vital in assessing exactly how useful the data can be.

TRUST YOURSELF

Don't be afraid to use other individuals’ input, but mostly trust your own instincts. A major problem with people developing their critical thinking isn't in analysis or good information; it’s in being unsure of themselves. Unfortunately, most people are insecure with their own knowledge and skill sets. If you are younger, use trusted sources a little more, if you’re older lean more towards your own experience and smarts. In the end however, rely on yourself, your own brains and common-sense are much better and reliable then one might realize. Also, you will need to actually focus on your problem, use your smarts and your experience. Sounds simple, but this is where many people go off track. People have a tendency to put too much faith in other people’s opinions and ideas. Trust your own basic intelligence and life experiences. Everybody has an inner voice, trust it.

ONGOING PROCESS

In ending, you will need to keep on working to improve your critical thinking with problems big and small. The more your experience different events and people in life the more attuned your critical thinking will become. Eventually your ability will improve, resulting in positive effects on your life. Always be careful though, it is easy to get sucked into following the crowd and you need to constantly remember to do your own investigating and trust your own judgments.

IMPROVE YOUR CRITICAL THINKING

Stop being intimidated with conversations about history or current events, and explore a large variety of topics to improve your knowledge and critical thinking. Never be a follower again, make up your own mind with conviction and confidence.