: Reasoning is driven by theories, definitions, laws, or models. Ask: What fundamental idea or theory am I using to organize my thinking?
Taking thinking apart is only half the battle. To assess the quality of your reasoning, the guide dictates that you must apply these universal standards to the eight elements above: : Can you elaborate or provide an illustration? Accuracy : Is that actually true, and how can we check it? Thinker’s Guide to Analytic Thinking: How to Ta...
The core premise of the guide is that all thinking—regardless of the topic—is composed of eight basic structures. To analyze your thinking, you must take it apart by examining these specific elements: : Reasoning is driven by theories, definitions, laws,
: Can you be more specific or provide more exact details? To assess the quality of your reasoning, the
to make sure your starting premises are actually true.
: Does your answer address the complexities of the issue?
: These are the presuppositions you take for granted. Ask: What am I assuming to be true without proof?