TURBOCHARGE YOUR REASONING WITH _CRITICAL THINKING_  Just what are the ingredients of a great argument? What is the secret to communicating your ideas clearly and persuasively? And how do you see through sloppy thinking and flim-flam?  If you’ve ever asked any of these questions, then this book is for you!  These days, strong critical thinking skills provide a vital foundation for academic success, and _Critical Thinking Skills For Dummies_ offers a clear and unintimidating introduction to what can otherwise be a pretty complex topic. Inside, you'll get hands-on, lively, and fun exercises that you can put to work today to improve your arguments and pin down key issues.  With this accessible and friendly guide, you'll get plain-English instruction on how to identify other people's assumptions, methodology, and conclusions, evaluate evidence, and interpret texts effectively. You'll also find tips and guidance on reading between the lines, assessing validity - and even advice on when _not_ to apply logic too rigidly! _Critical Thinking Skills for Dummies_: * Provides tools and strategies from a range of disciplines great for developing your reflective thinking skills * Offers expert guidance on sound reasoning and textual analysis * Shows precisely how to use concept mapping and brainstorming to generate insights * Demonstrates how critical thinking skills is a proven path to success as a student Whether you're undertaking reviews, planning research projects or just keen to give your brain a workout, _Critical Thinking Skills For Dummies_ equips you with everything you need to succeed.