Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flashcards
6 cards from real NEDP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Critical Thinking and Problem Solving flashcards as text
Which of the following best describes critical thinking?
Answer: Analyzing information objectively to form a well-reasoned judgment
Critical thinking involves systematic analysis, evaluation of evidence, and reasoned judgment — not passive acceptance.
A manager notices a 20% drop in customer satisfaction scores. What is the FIRST step in solving this problem?
Answer: Define the problem clearly by gathering data on what has changed.
Effective problem-solving begins with clearly defining and understanding the problem before jumping to solutions.
What is 'confirmation bias'?
Answer: The tendency to search for or favor information that confirms one's existing beliefs
Confirmation bias is a cognitive tendency to notice, seek, and remember information that supports what you already believe.
When brainstorming solutions to a problem, which approach is most effective?
Answer: Generate as many ideas as possible without evaluating them immediately.
Effective brainstorming separates idea generation from evaluation — judgment-free idea flow produces more creative solutions.
What does it mean to identify an 'assumption' in an argument?
Answer: Recognizing an unstated belief the argument relies on to be valid
Assumptions are unstated premises that must be true for the argument's logic to hold. Identifying them exposes potential weaknesses.
After implementing a solution to a workplace problem, what is the most important next step?
Answer: Evaluate whether the solution actually solved the problem by reviewing outcomes.
Evaluating outcomes after implementation is essential — it confirms effectiveness or reveals the need for adjustments.