Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Flashcards

What is the purpose of brainstorming in the problem-solving process?

Answer: To generate a wide range of ideas without judgment

Brainstorming is a creative technique designed to generate many ideas quickly by encouraging free thinking and deferring judgment until after the idea generation phase.

What is confirmation bias?

Answer: The tendency to seek and favor information that confirms pre-existing beliefs

Confirmation bias is the cognitive tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms one's pre-existing beliefs while dismissing contradictory evidence.

In the context of problem-solving, what is a 'trade-off'?

Answer: A situation where gaining one advantage requires giving up another

A trade-off is a situation where improving one aspect of a solution requires accepting a compromise or disadvantage in another aspect.

What is the Pareto Principle (80/20 rule) and how does it apply to problem-solving?

Answer: Roughly 80% of effects come from 20% of causes

The Pareto Principle states that roughly 80% of effects come from 20% of causes, suggesting that focusing on the vital few causes yields the greatest improvement.

What role does evidence play in critical thinking?

Answer: Evidence forms the foundation for logical conclusions and sound decision-making

In critical thinking, evidence is the foundation upon which logical analysis, sound conclusions, and informed decisions are built.

What is 'systems thinking' in the context of problem-solving?

Answer: Understanding how components interact within the whole rather than analyzing parts in isolation

Systems thinking views problems as part of an interconnected whole, recognizing that changing one component affects others and that solutions must consider these interdependencies.