The big Picture

We engage in various types of thinking for solving different problems. Thinking is a problem solving process. A process in which we reason about something. Types of thinking, we do · Concrete thinking – When we think in terms of our perception of actual or concrete things. Also called perceptual thinking. · Conceptual thinking – When we use concepts and languages. Also called abstract thinking. · Reflective thinking – When we solve complex problems and use facts and knowledge in a logical way to arrive at the solution. · Creative thinking – When we create or construct something new or novel thing. Also called thinking out of the box. · Critical thinking - When we evaluate everything and step aside our belief system to discover the truth. · Divergent thinking – When we explore a number of alternatives. · Convergent thinking –When we combine a number of ideas to arrive at a solution. · Associative thinking – When we think which is non-directed and without a goal · Linear thinking – When we process information in a sequential manner. · Gestalt Thinking – When we see the big and whole picture.

Cognitive abilities such as thinking, reasoning and problem-solving are some of the key characteristics which distinguish us from other species.