Introduction to Thinking

Skills
Thinking skills are a set of cognitive abilities that enable individuals to process
information, analyze situations, and make sound decisions. These skills are
essential for problem-solving, decision-making, and critical analysis in various
aspects of life.

by Rahnuma Bano
What are Thinking Skills?
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking involves actively and systematically processing information to evaluate its
credibility and relevance. It helps in making informed decisions.

Creative Thinking
Creative thinking encourages the generation of innovative ideas and solutions, often by
exploring unconventional perspectives and approaches.

Analytical Thinking
Analytical thinking focuses on breaking down complex problems into smaller components to
gain a deeper understanding of the underlying issues.
Importance of Thinking Skills
1 Enhanced Decision Making
Strong thinking skills facilitate better decision-making by enabling individuals to weigh
various options and anticipate outcomes.

2 Effective Problem Solving

Proficient thinkers can identify, analyze, and solve complex problems more efficiently,
leading to better results.

3 Innovative Solutions
Thinking skills foster the generation of innovative solutions, contributing to personal and
professional growth and success.
 Types of Thinking Skills
Convergent thinking Divergent thinking
Also known as linear or critical Also known as horizontal or creative
thinking. Convergent thinking focuses thinking, divergent thinking is a
on developing a single, well- thought process used to develop ideas
established answer to a problem. by exploring several possible
solutions.
Lateral thinking
Lateral thinking refers to your ability
to use both logic and imagination.
Critical Thinking
1 Evaluating Information
Critical thinking involves assessing the
credibility and relevance of information
to make well-informed decisions and
judgments.
2 Recognizing Biases
Proficient critical thinkers can identify
and account for biases, ensuring a more
objective understanding of issues.
 Five types of critical thinking skills

Observational skills Analytical skills

If you have strong
observation skills, you can
easily sense and identify a
problem before it becomes
worse.
The ability to analyse and assess a
problem effectively involves
knowing what information, data
or facts about the issue are
important.
Inference skills
Inference refers to your ability to
draw conclusions about the data
you have gathered.

Communications skills Problem-solving skills

Communication skills refer to your ability
to speak appropriately with a wide range of
people while maintaining good eye contact,
tailoring your language to your audience
and listening effectively.
Problem-solving typically requires you
to think critically to determine the best
solution and to understand whether the
solution achieves your goals.
Creative Thinking
1 Generating Ideas
Creative thinking involves the
generation of unique and innovative
ideas through imagination and
exploration of possibilities.
2 Embracing Divergent Thinking
Creative thinkers often embrace
divergent thinking, allowing for
exploration of unconventional solutions
and perspectives.
Analytical Thinking
1 Breaking Down Complexity
Analytical thinking involves breaking down
complex problems into manageable
components to gain deeper insights.
2 Identifying Patterns
Proficient analysts can identify recurring
patterns, trends, and relationships within large
sets of data for informed decision-making.
Logical Thinking
1 Systematic Reasoning
Logical thinking involves systematic and
methodical reasoning, ensuring the coherence
and validity of conclusions and decisions.
2 Evaluating Consequences
Proficient logical thinkers consider the
potential consequences of actions and
decisions, leading to more effective outcomes.
Problem-Solving Thinking
1 Identifying Challenges
Problem-solving thinking involves
identifying and defining complex
challenges or obstacles in various
contexts.
2 Implementing Solutions
Proficient problem solvers can evaluate
possible solutions and implement
strategies to address challenges
effectively.
Conclusion and Summary

Integration 1
Combining different thinking skills leads
to comprehensive and effective problem-
solving and decision-making. 2 Lifelong Learning
Continuous development of thinking skills
supports lifelong learning and personal
Application 3 growth.
Effective application of thinking skills
enhances professional success and
organizational innovation.