The Combination of Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills

The process of solving problems requires critical thinking. Problem-solving abilities and critical thinking are connected. These are sometimes used interchangeably. Critical thinking is the capacity to analyze and assess the observational and communicative processes as well as to comprehend data and arguments. Critical thinking is the capacity for thoughtful reasoning and decision-making that is oriented…


The process of solving problems requires critical thinking. Problem-solving abilities and critical thinking are connected. These are sometimes used interchangeably. Critical thinking is the capacity to analyze and assess the observational and communicative processes as well as to comprehend data and arguments. Critical thinking is the capacity for thoughtful reasoning and decision-making that is oriented toward resolving issues as a self-aware process that employs a judgment based on the available data, specific standards, and methodologies to interpret, analyze, and assess knowledge. Critical thinking abilities are developed through a process rather than being born naturally. The process of evaluating self-control with the goal of promoting problem-solving and decision-making, or the “engine” that determines what we should do or believe in specific situations, is known as critical thinking.

Problem-solving in education, particularly in learning, is constantly changing due to the dynamic social character of humans. The ability to address educational issues is a must for educators leading successful classroom instruction; this ability is tied to the ways in which educators can apply educational psychology to better comprehend their students. The goal of problem-solving is to carry out tasks in a methodical manner that can be utilized as a springboard to look for information or a solution. This approach can also be applied to tackle issues in actual classroom discussions.

Critical thinking is drawing conclusions based on knowledge and aims. It is also the process by which students use prior information and modify it following the appraisal process. Critical thinking is the capacity to examine situations, ideas, or events closely and then analyze them, drawing conclusions and evaluating the accuracy and dependability of the information in light of mental and logical standards. With the help of this higher-order thinking skill, one may make sense of the current circumstances and knowledge to fill in gaps, fix errors, and arrive at suitable conclusions. Indeed, identifying and evaluating informational sources for reliability, pointing to prior knowledge, drawing connections, and conclusions are all part of critical thinking skills. The general traits of critical thinking are reasoning and suspecting, examining situations from several angles and viewpoints, being adaptable and innovative, examining ideas objectively, being open-minded, applying analytical reasoning, and paying close attention to details. Conversely, those who possess critical thinking skills include those who can articulate the issue clearly, think freely and autonomously, and do not act mindlessly. From an educational standpoint, it is essential to foster both critical and problem-solving abilities because, in every field of study, there are competencies that every person can use to assess what they see, hear, or learn.