Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flashcards

What is the difference between a 'fact' and an 'opinion'?

Answer: A fact can be verified and proven; an opinion expresses a personal belief or judgment.

Facts are verifiable claims about reality; opinions are subjective judgments that cannot be proven true or false.

Which approach best represents a 'systematic' way to solve a complex problem?

Answer: Break the problem into smaller parts, analyze each part, then synthesize a solution.

Breaking complex problems into components, analyzing them separately, and synthesizing is a systematic and reliable approach.

When evaluating an online source for reliability, which factor is MOST important?

Answer: Whether the author's credentials and sources are clearly identified and verifiable

Author credentials and cited sources allow readers to verify claims and assess expertise — the foundation of source reliability.

In problem solving, what is 'analysis paralysis'?

Answer: Being unable to make a decision because of overthinking or over-analyzing options

Analysis paralysis occurs when excessive deliberation prevents timely decision-making, often when perfect information is sought.

Which of the following is an example of inductive reasoning?

Answer: Every time I've eaten at that restaurant, the food has been excellent — it must be a great restaurant.

Inductive reasoning draws a probable general conclusion from specific observations — the conclusion is likely, but not guaranteed.

Which skill is MOST important when evaluating whether a solution to a problem is effective?

Answer: Measuring the actual results against the original goal to see if the problem was resolved

Effectiveness is determined by comparing real outcomes to the original objective — without measurement, you cannot evaluate success.