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Elements of critical thinking

When it comes to critically analysing articles at university, there are generally four steps that you need to work through: identifying the topic, analysis, synthesis and evaluation. Let's take a look at what's involved at each stage.

Identifying the topic

The first step in the critical analysis of a text is identifying the topic.

'Topic' refers to the word or sentence which states the main subject of the work. The 'work' is the author's explanation of the topic. The topic is often identified in the main title and it should be clear from the abstract or opening paragraph what the topic is. Topics answer the questions of who, what and why through data and facts.

Once you have identified the topic, it's time to start the critical thinking process, which has three key elements:

  • analyse
  • evaluate
  • synthesise.

Analyse

When you analyse, you identify the parts of an argument. This includes:

  • identifying the main elements of a text, particularly the key ideas, the argument and the evidence
  • drawing out inferences and implications
  • identifying any persuasive tactics that have been used.

Examples of analytical language

Here are some examples of language that can be used when analysing information:

  • Wright's (2022) claim that ... is supported by...
  • The evidence is comprised of three main components, which are...
  • The research demonstrates that...

Evaluate

When you evaluate, you make judgements about arguments and theories.
This includes:

  • identifying the strengths and weaknesses in an argument (its credibility)
  • weighing up the value of evidence (its validity)
  • identifying and evaluating the assumptions underlying the argument (its integrity).

Examples of evaluative language

Here are some examples of language that can be used when evaluating arguments:

  • Nguyen's (2021) argument is based on quantitative research conducted by...
  • The evidence used to support this theory is credible because...
  • This research is based on unreliable theories because...
  • The results do not support the conclusions of the report due to...
  • This argument has been adequately supported by evidence such as...

Synthesise

Synthesising means bringing together different sources of information and considering them together.
It includes:

  • putting information together in a new pattern
  • providing a new point of view
  • showing how the relationship between the parts, and between the parts and the whole, producing a unique communication.

Examples of language used for synthesising

Here are some examples of language that can be used when synthesising information:

  • The study by Akbar (2024) contributes to the research on the topic of...
  • Overall, the research demonstrates that...
  • From these studies, it can be concluded that...

Critical writing example

In this example paragraph, note how the writer has structured their paragraph to support their contention stated in the topic sentence.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) tools may face challenges when applied in cross-cultural and multicultural contexts. This is because different cultures, ethnicities, and genders have varying perceptions of emotions and their expression (Patel, 2021). Lee (2022) notes that actions considered emotionally intelligent in one cultural setting may not be perceived the same way in another. It is generally considered that the most widely used EI measurement instruments lack sensitivity to cross-cultural and multicultural differences (Garcia, 2021). Despite this, many proponents of EI continue to apply these tools across different cultures, assuming their universal applicability. Given that EI is developed within specific cultural contexts (Nguyen et al., 2023), Human Resource Development (HRD) professionals should exercise caution when using EI tools or principles in diverse cultural environments.

Further resources

Choose valid sources

Learn how to find the best information for your assignments.

Critical thinking

Learn about the elements of reasoning model to strengthen your critical-thinking skills.

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