Making sense of information, ideas and decisions
With so much information competing for your attention, critical thinking helps you sort through what matters. It’s the skill of asking the right questions and making decisions based on evidence, not assumptions.
How critical thinking shows up in your learning
Critical thinking shows up in the decisions you make as you work through information, ideas and evidence. It is present when you pause to question what you are reading, compare different viewpoints, weigh up options or decide what evidence matters most.
These moments are often embedded in everyday study tasks. Recognising them can help you see how you are already using judgement, reasoning and evidence to support your learning.
What critical thinking looks like in practice
You might use your critical thinking skills when you:
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Question assumptions instead of accepting information at face value
Example: While writing a research paper, you find a source that strongly supports your argument but realise it lacks evidence or credible references. Instead of using it straight away, you question whether it is reliable and look for stronger evidence before deciding what to include.
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Compare different viewpoints or sources
Example: During a group brainstorm, two teammates suggest different approaches for a presentation. Instead of choosing one immediately, you compare the strengths and limitations of each idea before helping the group decide on the best direction.
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Use evidence to support your arguments
Example: When preparing an essay, report or presentation, you choose evidence that directly supports your point rather than including information just because it is interesting. This helps you build a clearer and more convincing argument.
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Evaluate whether information is reliable or relevant
Example: While on placement or in a part-time role, you are asked to recommend a new tool, process or approach. You compare different types of information, such as feedback, data or examples, and decide which evidence is most useful for the situation.
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Reconsider your position when new information emerges
Example: In a tutorial, studio or seminar, you hear a new perspective that challenges what you originally thought. Instead of dismissing it, you reflect on the evidence and consider whether your position needs to change.
These actions reflect how you process information, not just what you know.
How critical thinking develops through your studies
As you progress through your degree, you practise critical thinking by making choices about:
What information to prioritise
How to interpret material, evidence or data
How to compare different perspectives
How to justify decisions and arguments
Over time, this strengthens your ability to reason clearly and explain why you have reached a particular conclusion.
How to recognise your own critical thinking
Try reflecting on questions like:
What questions did I ask before deciding?
How did I choose between different sources, ideas or options?
What evidence did I use to support my thinking?
What changed my mind, and why?
If you can answer these questions, you are already articulating critical thinking in action.
How to talk about this skill
Instead of saying:
“I wrote an essay.”
You might say:
“I evaluated multiple sources, compared different perspectives, and used evidence to support a clear argument.”
This shifts the focus from the task to the the process you went through .
Why this skill continues to matter
Critical thinking supports sound judgement in situations where there are multiple options and no simple answers. It helps you make informed decisions, adapt your thinking, and respond thoughtfully to complexity in study, work and life.
Explore this skill further
- Notice where judgement and decision-making show up in your current courses
- Reflect on how your thinking has changed over time
- Practise describing the evidence, choices and reasoning behind your work
