Critical thinking refers to the conscious process of evaluating an analyzing thinking in order to improve it and better results. Additionally, critical thinking forms a vital part of reflective and logical thinking which seeks to aid in coming up with the decision about what is to be believed or what action should be taken. Most importantly critical thinking provides the means for determining if a claim is false, partially true or always true. Critical thinking tests the validity of an argument. It tests whether an argument is acceptable basing on the truthfulness of premises (Clegg and Ross-Smith 2003).
A claim and an argument can be differentiated by considering the role each plays in the process of critical thinking. A claim refers to the basic idea that an individual is trying to pass across to be true. A claim needs a reason that supports it. Therefore, for the claim to be accepted there needs to be evidence or proof to believe in the claim. On the other hand, an argument refers to a combination of several claims and the accompanying support reasons. An argument focuses on how accurate the main claim presented is. It is this explanation and analysis of the presented claims that forms the basis of an argument (Ferraro, Pfeffer and Sutton, 2005).
An argument can be supported in three main ways when developing an academic essay. The first is by using statistics. This refers to the use of numerical data and figures to support an argument. When used, an explanation has to be given on the significance of the numerical data to the argument (Mills, Simmons, and Helms Mills, 2005). Expert opinion also provides an essential means of supporting an argument. Expert opinion refers to using the interpretations of experts concerning a certain aspect of the argument. Finally, the use of visual aids in supporting an argument is also important (Linstead, Fulup and Lilley, 2009). Visual aids help in creating a strong visual impact of the argument while enhancing readability. Visual aids that can be used include; charts, figures, tables and illustrations.