Quick Summary: Make decisions you can stand behind. Use these core critical thinking behaviours and step-by-step prompts to separate facts from assumptions, evaluate arguments objectively, and move from clarity to confident action.
Have you ever second-guessed a decision? While we can’t change the past, we can improve the way we think going forward. Apply these critical thinking principles to approach workplace challenges with more clarity and confidence.
What Is Critical Thinking?
Critical thinking is the ability to examine a situation from multiple perspectives and determine the best course of action. It focuses on how facts are established, how arguments are formed, and how conclusions are reached—not just on what those facts or conclusions are.
8 Behaviours of a Critical Thinker
- Questions things
- Doesn’t draw conclusions too quickly
- Examines arguments for and against an issue
- Distinguishes fact from opinion
- Recognizes other people’s agendas
- Explores multiple perspectives
- Adjusts assumptions in light of facts
- Is aware of their own thought processes
Steps to Become a Better Critical Thinker
Recognize Assumptions
We all make assumptions, often without noticing. Distinguish facts from opinions, consider which assumptions are relevant, and seek alternative viewpoints.
Example: “If we raise our price, our best customers will stop buying from us” (opinion). “If we raise our price by $5, market research projects a 10% sales decrease” (fact).
Evaluate Arguments
Look critically at assertions and assess them objectively. Watch for persuasion tactics, your own biases, and strong emotions that can cloud judgment. Authoritative statements can be mistaken for fact.
- What is the basis for your opinion?
- What evidence supports it?
- Why do you believe the information is accurate?
- Why do you think this applies to this problem?
Assess the Situation
Evaluate what you know and determine next steps.
- How urgent is this situation?
- How much time do I have to develop a solution?
- Who is affected and what are their concerns or agendas?
- What resources do I have to work with?
Draw Conclusions
Use available evidence to arrive at logical conclusions—and be explicit about your reasoning.
- What assumptions am I (and others) making? How trustworthy are they?
- What arguments are being presented? How valid are they?
- Given the evidence, what conclusions can I draw? What is the best course of action?
Take Action
Plan, implement, and adjust as you learn more.
- What is my action plan and how will I introduce it to others?
- How well is the plan working?
- What mid-course corrections are needed?
Ready to strengthen your decision-making? Build practical skills you can apply immediately in our Critical Thinking course.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is critical thinking in the workplace?
It’s a structured way of separating facts from assumptions, testing arguments, and choosing actions that align with your goals, constraints, and stakeholder needs.
How can I practice critical thinking every day?
Use short prompts: “What’s fact vs. opinion?”, “What assumptions am I making?”, “What evidence would change my mind?” Capture your reasoning before you decide.
What common pitfalls should I watch for?
Rushing to conclusions, confirmation bias, over-relying on authority, and letting strong emotions drive decisions. Slow down, ask for evidence, and test alternate explanations.
Which course can help me build these skills?
Canadian Management Centre’s Critical Thinking course provides tools and practice to apply these steps to real workplace challenges.
This article first appeared on amanet.org and has been adapted for Canadian Management Centre. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
