What is Critical Thinking? State its importance for a student.

Ans: Critical Thinking Critical thinking is purely objectively and rational activity. It is the process of thinking about something critically and with doubts in order to search its reality. It enables us to recognize a wide range of subjective analyses of otherwise objective data, and to evaluate how well each analysis might meet our needs. Facts may be facts, but how we interpret them may vary.
Critical thinking includes a complex combination of skills. The main characteristics of critical thinking are:

1. Rationality We are thinking critically when we
• rely on reason rather than emotion, • require evidence, ignore no known evidence, and follow evidence where it leads, and • are concerned more with finding the best explanation than being right analyzing apparent confusion and asking questions.

2. Self-awareness We are thinking critically when we
• weigh the influences of motives and bias, and • Recognize our own assumptions, prejudices, biases, or point of view.

3. Honesty We are thinking critically when we recognize emotional impulses, selfish motives, nefarious purposes, or other modes of self-deception.

4. Open-mindedness We are thinking critically when we
• evaluate all reasonable inferences • consider a variety of possible viewpoints or perspectives, • remain open to alternative interpretations • accept a new explanation, model, or paradigm because it explains the evidence better, is simpler, or has fewer inconsistencies or covers more data • accept new priorities in response to a reevaluation of the evidence or reassessment of our real interests, and • do not reject unpopular views out of hand.

5. Discipline We are thinking critically when we
• are precise, meticulous, comprehensive, and exhaustive • resist manipulation and irrational appeals, and • avoid snap judgments.
6. Judgment We are thinking critically when we
• recognize the relevance and/or merit of alternative assumptions and perspectives • recognize the extent and weight of evidence
To sum up:
• Critical thinkers are by nature skeptical.
They approach texts with the same skepticism and suspicion as they approach spoken remarks.
• Critical thinkers are active, not passive.
They ask questions and analyze. They consciously apply tactics and strategies to uncover meaning or assure their understanding.  •
Critical thinkers do not take an egotistical view of the world. They are open to new ideas and perspectives.  They are willing to challenge their beliefs and investigate competing evidence.
ELEMENTS OF CRITICAL THINKING
1. ANALYSIS
2. APPLICATION OF STANDARDS
3. INFORMATION SEEKING
4. LOGICAL REASONING
5. PREDICTION