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Critical thinking skills allow you to make crucial decisions in the workplace. These skills are fundamental in leadership positions where thoughtful judgment is necessary. However, any job seeker will benefit from critical thinking skills because it will allow you to solve problems and develop creative ways to do so.

In this article, you’ll learn critical thinking skills examples and tips on highlighting them in your resume.

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What Are Critical Thinking Skills?

Critical thinking skills are soft skills that refer to an individual’s ability to be mindful, aware, fully considerate and calculated about their choices. It involves collecting information, asking thoughtful questions, analyzing problems and considering possible solutions.

When you think critically, you can examine a situation rationally and employ problem-solving techniques efficiently. Critical thinking skills are muscles that must be exercised and built over time. It is vital to keep using them to refine them.

Top Critical Thinking Skills Examples

Consider including these critical thinking skills when writing your resume.

Observation

Your ability to see and actively listen is essential. Observation requires mindful consideration of the people and things around you.

Observation skills include:

  • Attention to detail
  • Listening
  • Adaptability
  • Self-awareness

Judgment

It takes a keen eye to decide which information should be prioritized or what action needs to be taken. Critical thinkers must evaluate and prioritize factors to arrive at a practical solution with sound judgment.

Judgment skills include:

  • Logical reasoning
  • Decision making
  • Ethics
  • Evaluation
  • Prioritization

Mindfulness

Sometimes referred to as metacognitive ability, mindfulness is the ability to be aware or fully conscious. Being mindful lets the individual observe a situation objectively and appreciate every detail. Mastering this skill improves critical thinking.

Mindfulness skills include:

  • Self-awareness
  • Attention to detail
  • Objective observation
  • Acceptance
  • Openness

Analysis

Analysis is how you look at data or information and come to valuable conclusions based on them. Analytical skills require the use of systemic processes to be able to interpret a subject and reach a determination.

Analytical skills include:

  • Trial and error
  • Observation
  • Research
  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail

Communication

Good communication skills help collect all the information needed to solve a problem or make a decision, making it a crucial ability for critical thinking.

Communication skills include:

  • Active listening
  • Nonverbal cues
  • Writing
  • Clarity
  • Conciseness

Creative problem-solving

Finding unique solutions to issues in the workplace requires trying unconventional approaches and innovating. Creative problem-solving demands constant practice and changes in the thought process.

Creative problem-solving skills include:

  • Brainstorming
  • Abstraction
  • Thought experiments
  • Trial and error

Decision-making

Decision-making requires thoughtful consideration and being confident in your judgment. A crucial aspect of being a strong critical thinker is making well-thought-out decisions.

Decision-making skills include:

  • Logical reasoning
  • Time-management
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Intuition
  • Leadership

Active learning

Active learning implies a hands-on approach where the person participates in an activity that helps them understand the subject better. Being an active learner improves your critical thinking skills, allowing you to understand the situation entirely.

Active learning skills include:

  • Self-assessment
  • Role-playing
  • Group work
  • Case study analysis

Additional Critical Thinking Skills

Critical thinking skills are valuable in any industry because they demonstrate your ability to handle issues efficiently. Include these extra skills in your job application:

  • Active listening
  • Reflection
  • Leadership
  • Flexibility
  • Inference
  • Deductive reasoning
  • Time management
  • Logic
  • Research
  • Brainstorming
  • Prioritization
  • Interpretation
  • Curiosity
  • Creativity
  • Open-mindedness
Technical skills

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Critical Thinking Skills FAQ

How to list critical thinking skills on a resume?

The job post is where employers directly inform you what skills they seek in a qualified candidate. Tailor your resume to what the company asks! Use the same phrasing listed in the job description; that will show that you pay attention to detail and, better yet, help pass an applicant tracking system (ATS).

Otherwise, there are two places to feature critical thinking skills in your resume. The first is to have a skills section and list six to eight total skills, which should include a balance of hard, technical and soft skills. The second way is to include them in your work experience with specific examples of instances where those skills were valuable.

How to describe critical thinking skills on a cover letter?

A well-written cover letter will tell a story and allow you to demonstrate how you put your critical thinking skills to good use. If the job demands critical thinking skills, highlight moments from previous roles where you showed proven analysis, report and action based upon them!

How do I highlight my critical thinking skills during an interview?

Similar to how you approach your critical thinking skills in a cover letter, your interview is an opportunity to explain specific situations where these skills were helpful. If critical thinking skills are central to the role you're applying for, we recommend you come prepared if the recruiter has some problem-solving questions for you.

Why are critical thinking skills important?

Critical thinking is a universal skill, making it valuable in many aspects of your life, including your career. Additionally, critical thinking skills are essential for improving language skills and promoting creativity and self-reflection. Learning to build critical thinking skills is crucial because it will make you a well-rounded employee and help you advance your career.

How to improve critical thinking skills?

Improving critical thinking skills requires constant practice and patience. Develop your natural curiosity by asking questions, researching topics you're interested in and being an active listener. Even performing daily tasks such as crossword or sudoku puzzles can enhance your critical thinking skills!

If you're serious about growing your critical thinking skills, we suggest this online course from the University of Michigan. Have no fear. The fact that you’re even thinking about expanding your critical thinking skills shows you’re on the right track!

*The names and logos of the companies referred to above are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with JobHero.