PERT Critical Thinking & Logical Reasoning

Question 1

What is critical thinking?

Accepted Answer

Analyzing facts to form judgment

Answer

Critical thinking is the objective analysis and evaluation of information in order to form a judgment. It involves actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information gathered from various sources. This process helps in making reasoned and rational decisions, rather than simply accepting information at face value.

Question 2

What does logical reasoning mean?

Accepted Answer

Using a process to reach conclusions

Answer

Logical reasoning is a systematic process of using facts, premises, and rules to arrive at a sound conclusion. It involves constructing arguments where the conclusion necessarily follows from the premises, or where the premises provide strong support for the conclusion. This method ensures that conclusions are derived through a rational and coherent thought process, rather than intuition or guesswork.

Question 3

Why is evaluating evidence important?

Accepted Answer

To check argument strength

Answer

Evaluating evidence is critical because it allows us to assess the credibility, relevance, and sufficiency of information supporting a claim or argument. By scrutinizing evidence, we can determine whether an argument is well-supported, identify potential biases, and distinguish between strong and weak reasoning. This process is essential for forming well-justified beliefs and making sound judgments.

Question 4

What is a logical fallacy?

Accepted Answer

A flaw in reasoning

Answer

A logical fallacy is an error in reasoning that undermines the logic of an argument, making it unsound or invalid. These flaws can be subtle and often make an argument seem convincing even when it isn't. Recognizing logical fallacies is crucial for critical thinking, as it helps in identifying weak arguments and avoiding deceptive rhetoric.

Question 5

What is deductive reasoning?

Accepted Answer

Drawing specifics from general principles

Answer

Deductive reasoning is a top-down logical process where a conclusion is reached by applying general principles or rules to specific cases. If the premises are true, the conclusion must also be true, making it a form of certain reasoning. For example, if all men are mortal (general principle) and Socrates is a man (specific case), then Socrates is mortal (specific conclusion).

PERT Practice Test

PERT Practice Test

PERT Critical Thinking & Logical Reasoning