A Brilliant Oxford Professor taught me how to think (you can learn too)

Introduction

This tutorial is designed to help you develop your thinking skills inspired by insights from an Oxford professor. By following these steps, you'll learn how to cultivate original thoughts and enhance your critical thinking abilities.

Step 1: Understand the Importance of Original Thinking

• Reflect on your current thinking habits.
• Recognize that many people do not engage in original thought regularly.
• Acknowledge that developing your own ideas is crucial for personal and professional growth.

Step 2: Challenge Your Assumptions

• Identify your core beliefs and assumptions.
• Question the validity of these beliefs by:
  • Seeking evidence that contradicts them.
  • Engaging in discussions with others who hold different viewpoints.
• Keep an open mind to new ideas and perspectives.

Step 3: Practice Critical Thinking

• Break down problems into smaller, manageable parts.
• Analyze these components to understand different aspects of a situation.
• Use the following techniques:
  • Ask "why" multiple times to delve deeper into an issue.
  • Consider the implications of your thoughts and decisions.

Step 4: Engage in Creative Exercises

• Dedicate time to brainstorming sessions without judgment.
• Use mind mapping to visualize connections between ideas.
• Try out the following activities:
  • Write down 10 ideas about a topic without filtering them.
  • Collaborate with peers for diverse input and inspiration.

Step 5: Learn from Others

• Read books, articles, and research papers from various disciplines.
• Attend lectures or watch educational videos to gain different perspectives.
• Join discussion groups or forums focused on critical thinking and creativity.

Step 6: Reflect on Your Learning Process

• Keep a journal to track your thoughts and ideas.
• Review your entries regularly to identify patterns and areas for improvement.
• Set specific goals for your thinking practices, such as aiming to develop one original idea each week.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can cultivate original thinking and enhance your critical thinking skills. Remember to challenge assumptions, practice creativity, and learn from others. Consider setting aside time regularly to engage in these activities, and you'll likely see significant improvements in your thought processes. Start your journey towards better thinking today!