Prof Ian Cameron, School of Chemical Engineering UQ, v3. 17082011.

Modified by Daniel Lewis, with kind permission of Prof. Cameron.

Critical Thinking Assessment Standards and Codes [Paul & Elder (2002); Paul, Niewoehner & Elder (2007)]
The following table summarises the important issues represented by these intellectual standards. In each area, ask yourself the relevant questions to improve your
thinking, writing and analytical skills.

Intellectual Standard Commentary/Questions to ask Intellectual Standard Commentary/Questions to ask
Clarity

C
Understandable: can the meaning be understood?

Is the statement clear?
Can this issue be illustrated to improve what is meant?
Data, information, knowledge clearly defined, presented
and used?

Significance

S
Focus on the most important issues and factors.

Most significant information and knowledge to address issue?
Why is this important in this context?
What is most important in this situation?

Relevance
R
Relating to the problem or situation.

How does this bear upon the question?
How does this help with the issue?
Does this relate to the problem?

Precision
P
Exact to the necessary detail.

Does it need to be more specific?
Acceptable tolerances or deviations are considered and presented?
Are more details needed?

Logic

L
The parts make sense together, with no contradictions.

Does that follow from what has been said?
Earlier statement implied this, but now you are saying can
both be true?
Does it make sense?

Breadth

B
Encompassing multiple viewpoints.

Are other views needed?
Another way to look at this issue?
Full range of options explored?

Accuracy

A
Free from errors and distortions.

Is it really true? Wheres the evidence?
How can it be checked?
Have assumptions been challenged?

Fairness

F
Justifiable, not self-serving or one-sided.

Other viewpoints been considered?
Divergent views fairly represented?
Ethical implications considered?
Are there vested interests?
Conciseness

CN
Expressed directly and briefly.

Is it a rambling or brief expression of the issue?
Can it be expressed in fewer words or a different way?


Depth

D
Containing complexities and multiple interrelationships.

Are the complexities of the situation really addressed?
Are the most significant factors covered?
What is the required model complexity in relation to reality?

Other coding can include: SP for spelling and G for grammar