1. Based on the given definitions of critical thinking, is critical thinking same as analytical thinking and Problem Solving?

At first, one might not notice the difference and would acquaint with these words together. These terms are commonly used interchangeably because of their meaning intertwined and interwoven in the taxonomy of academic proficiency. Keen and ardent observations are required to delineate the difference between the two concepts. Critical thinking speaks more on decision-making. It is the ability to analyze facts and making judgment to evaluate a certain condition (facts vs. opinion). This is an intellectually disciplined process that leads to constant questioning (more questions), analyzing alternatives, considering the desirable and detrimental effects of a certain preference, understanding a concept or process to contain a definite conclusion. Moreover, it encompasses a bigger picture and reflects thinking outside the box. It is relentless. Analytical thinking and problem solving on the other hand is an integral part of critical thinking. It involves systematic and scientific approach to examine the detail of a certain phenomenon. It is a logical reasoning to determine the cause and effect, formulate hypothesis to analyze and find solutions. It more correlated to problem solving skills. Furthermore, it requires rigorous steps to answer a problem or a given condition. In cases of autopsy, dissecting a human body is a simple explanation of analysis where we undergo a process of breaking into parts or fragments to find out exactly the cause of death. Critical thinking comes into play when we decide whether an autopsy would be the most appropriate way to determine the cause of death among the other alternatives considering the different social and cultural practices of an individual or group that might pose as hindrance in performance of such act.

2. How would you know what someone else is thinking? It does not require a rocket science or a kryptonite for us to read minds and determine what someone else is thinking. This can be uncovered by the art of asking or questioning. It is a common mistake that one must not perpetrate is to assume what others are thinking. Knowing a person for a long time, a friend, your most loyal customer, and maybe your weird and strange neighbourhood does not excuse you to think what the other person is thinking. Reading and scrutinizing their non verbal cues or body language does not fully entitle you to get the soup of the day. Theres no harm in asking the person upfront and by looking into their eyes. The tongue may lie but the soul wont deny.