Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flashcards

Which of the following is an example of deductive reasoning?

Answer: All mammals breathe air. Dolphins are mammals. Therefore, dolphins breathe air.

Deductive reasoning moves from general premises to a specific, logically certain conclusion.

A logical fallacy called 'false dilemma' presents a situation as if there are only two choices when there are actually more. Which statement is an example?

Answer: 'You're either with us or against us — there's no middle ground.'

The false dilemma forces a binary choice, ignoring the full spectrum of possible positions.

Which question strategy is most useful when trying to understand the root cause of a problem?

Answer: Asking 'Why?' repeatedly until the underlying cause is identified (the '5 Whys' technique)

The '5 Whys' technique drills down past symptoms to identify the real root cause of a problem.

Which of the following is the best definition of 'evidence-based decision making'?

Answer: Using reliable data and factual information as the primary basis for decisions

Evidence-based decisions rely on verified data and factual research rather than assumptions or opinion.

What is 'lateral thinking'?

Answer: Approaching problems creatively from unexpected angles rather than following conventional logic

Lateral thinking (coined by Edward de Bono) involves creative, indirect approaches that break conventional patterns.

An employee receives two job offers: Job A pays more but requires long hours; Job B pays less but offers flexibility. Which problem-solving tool would help compare these options most systematically?

Answer: A pros and cons list or decision matrix weighing each factor by importance

A decision matrix allows you to weigh multiple factors (salary, hours, flexibility) by importance to reach a rational choice.