Critical thinking is one of the most valuable skills you can develop, whether it’s for work, study, or even just for everyday decision-making…
Not only does it allow you to assess information objectively and challenge assumptions, it’s also the key to making well-reasoned choices. And with many employers actively seeking candidates who can think critically, becoming a critical thinker will certainly help set you apart in the job market.
Here’s what critical thinking is, why it matters, and how you can develop and demonstrate this essential skill to employers:
What is critical thinking?
Critical thinking is the ability to objectively evaluate information, identify logical connections, and make well-reasoned decisions.
It involves questioning assumptions, considering alternative viewpoints, and analysing evidence to reach sound conclusions.
Unlike simply absorbing information, critical thinkers actively engage with content, assessing its credibility and relevance.
Why are critical thinking skills important?
Critical thinking helps you make rational choices, solve problems effectively, and avoid misinformation – contributing to better decision-making, creativity, and adaptability.
Employers value critical thinkers because they can assess situations objectively, identify opportunities for improvement, and contribute to innovation and efficiency.
What’s more, jobs posted on Reed.co.uk* show that critical thinking is not only one of the seven most in-demand skills for getting hired in 2025, but its demand surged by 183% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Examples of critical thinking
Critical thinking is applied in many everyday and professional situations. Some examples include:
- Assessing workplace feedback
- A manager receives conflicting reports about a project’s progress and carefully evaluates all perspectives before making a decision.
- Detecting misinformation
- A person reads an article online and cross-references sources to determine its accuracy.
- Weighing career options
- A job seeker compares roles, company cultures, and long-term prospects before accepting an offer.
- Legal reasoning
- A lawyer analyses case law and evidence to construct a strong argument in court.
What’s the difference between critical thinking skills and analytical skills?
While critical thinking and analytical skills are closely related, they have distinct differences:
- Critical thinking focuses on evaluating information, questioning assumptions, and making reasoned judgments. It involves broad reasoning skills, including recognising biases and considering ethical implications.
- Analytical skills involve breaking down complex problems into smaller parts, identifying patterns, and drawing logical conclusions. These skills are often more data-driven and structured.
For example, a scientist conducting an experiment uses analytical skills to interpret data trends, while their critical thinking skills help them question whether the data supports their hypothesis or if alternative explanations exist.
Analytical skills: What are they, and how can you develop them?
How to develop critical thinking skills
You can develop these skills by:
- Engaging in debates. Discussing topics with others encourages you to defend your viewpoints with logic and evidence.
- Challenging your own beliefs. Regularly reassess your opinions by considering opposing arguments.
- Reading widely. Exposing yourself to a range of sources and perspectives helps build a well-rounded approach to critical thinking.
- Taking time before making decisions. Rushing to conclusions can lead to errors. Instead, weigh all available information before acting.
- Taking online courses. A critical thinking course will teach you how to analyse situations, solve problems, and make informed decisions.
View all critical thinking courses
Critical thinking jobs
Many careers depend on strong critical thinking abilities. Some examples include:
- Doctors & Nurses – who diagnose and treat patients based on symptoms and medical history.
- Lawyers & Judges – who analyse evidence and apply laws to make fair judgments.
- Software Developers – who debug and optimise code to solve programming challenges.
- Investment Analysts – who evaluate financial data to make investment recommendations.
- Police Officers & Detectives – who investigate cases and assess situations quickly.
- Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, etc.) – who design safe and efficient systems or structures.
- Marketing Managers – who analyse consumer data to create effective campaigns.
- Teachers & Lecturers – who adapt lessons based on student needs and learning styles.
- Scientists & Researchers – who design experiments and analyse data for discoveries.
- Pilots & Air Traffic Controllers – who make split-second decisions for safety.
How to demonstrate critical thinking skills to employers
Employers look for candidates who can think critically. Here’s how to showcase these skills:
- On your CV – Highlight examples where you identified inefficiencies, solved complex problems, or improved processes.
- In a cover letter – Describe a time you made a difficult decision using logic and analysis.
- During interviews – Share scenarios where you evaluated multiple solutions before selecting the best course of action.
- In practical tasks – If given a case study or assessment, explain your reasoning clearly and justify your conclusions.
Developing and showcasing critical thinking skills in your CV and cover letter, as well as at an interview, is a great way to boost your employability and stand out to employers.
Ready to develop your critical thinking skills? View all courses now.
*Source: Job ads posted on Reed.co.uk – 1st January 2023 to 31st December 2023 vs. 1st January 2024 to 31st December 2024.
