Critical Thinking Definition, Skills, and Examples
By Alison Doyle
Updated on March 15, 2022
Critical thinking refers to the ability to analyze information objectively and make a reasoned judgment. It involves the
evaluation of sources, such as data, facts, observable phenomena, and research findings.1
Good critical thinkers can draw reasonable conclusions from a set of information, and discriminate between useful and
less useful details to solve problems or make decisions. Employers prioritize the ability to think critically—find out why,
plus see how you can demonstrate that you have this ability throughout the job application process.
Why Do Employers Value Critical Thinking Skills?
Employers want job candidates who can evaluate a situation using logical thought and offer the best solution. Someone
with critical thinking skills can be trusted to make decisions independently, and will not need constant handholding.
Hiring a critical thinker means that micromanaging won't be required. Critical thinking abilities are among the most
sought-after skills in almost every industry and workplace.2 You can demonstrate critical thinking by using
related keywords in your resume and cover letter, and during your interview.
Promote Your Skills in Your Job Search
If critical thinking is a key phrase in the job listings you are applying for, be sure to emphasize your critical thinking skills
throughout your job search.
Add Keywords to Your Resume
You can use critical thinking keywords (analytical, problem solving, creativity, etc.) in your resume. When describing
your work history, include top critical thinking skills that accurately describe you. You can also include them in
your resume summary, if you have one.
For example, your summary might read, “Marketing Associate with five years of experience in project management.
Skilled in conducting thorough market research and competitor analysis to assess market trends and client needs, and to
develop appropriate acquisition tactics.”
Show the Interviewer Your Skills
Some interviewers will give you a hypothetical scenario or problem, and ask you to use critical thinking skills to solve it.
In this case, explain your thought process thoroughly to the interviewer. He or she is typically more focused on how you
arrive at your solution rather than the solution itself. The interviewer wants to see you analyze and evaluate (key parts
of critical thinking) the given scenario or problem. Of course, each job will require different skills and experiences, so
make sure you read the job description carefully and focus on the skills listed by the employer.
Top Critical Thinking Skills
Keep these in-demand critical thinking skills in mind as you update your resume and write your cover letter. As you've
seen, you can also emphasize them at other points throughout the application process, such as your interview.
Analysis
Part of critical thinking is the ability to carefully examine something, whether it is a problem, a set of data, or a text.
People with analytical skills can examine information, understand what it means, and properly explain to others the
implications of that information.
Communication
Often, you will need to share your conclusions with your employers or with a group of colleagues. You need to be able
to communicate with others to share your ideas effectively. You might also need to engage in critical thinking in a group.
In this case, you will need to work with others and communicate effectively to figure out solutions to complex problems.
Creativity
Critical thinking often involves creativity and innovation. You might need to spot patterns in the information you are
looking at or come up with a solution that no one else has thought of before. All of this involves a creative eye that can
take a different approach from all other approaches.
Open-Mindedness
To think critically, you need to be able to put aside any assumptions or judgments and merely analyze the information
you receive. You need to be objective, evaluating ideas without bias.
Problem Solving
Problem-solving is another critical thinking skill that involves analyzing a problem, generating and implementing a
solution, and assessing the success of the plan. Employers don’t simply want employees who can think about
information critically. They also need to be able to come up with practical solutions.
Article Sources
1. University of Louisville. "What is Critical Thinking."
2. American Management Association. "AMA Critical Skills Survey: Workers Need Higher Level Skills to Succeed in
the 21st Century."
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