Some experts beleive that a person's overall intelligence is comprised of three
distinct thinking elements -- analytical, creative, and practical. Here are some tips
for improving all three types of thinking.
Seek out more (complete) information about situation/decision
Separate information you do have into fact and opinions
Evaluate and decide on importance of each piece of information
Breakdown larger concepts into smaller, easier to manage pieces
Dedicate time to gather, read, and evaluate information
Improving Creative Thinking Skills
Take risks by pushing yourself out of your comfort zone when seeking understanding
Seek out examples of others' creative solutions to similar situations
Examine the situation you face from multiple perspectives
Go beyond obvious and conventional solutions
Free yourself to brainstorm (develop) multiple solutions to situation
Improving Practical Thinking Skills
Try and observe how others work and make decisions
Examine how things have been successfully accomplished by others
Look for patterns in past experience to prepare for future decisions/situations
Read and review common sense tips for everyday situations
Apply what you have learned from the past to present day
Questions about some of the terminology used in this quiz? Get more information (definitions and links) on key college, career, and job-search
terms by going to our Job-Seeker's Glossary of Job-Hunting Terms.
Dr. Randall S. Hansen is founder of Quintessential Careers,
one of the oldest and most comprehensive career development sites on the Web, as well CEO of
EmpoweringSites.com. He is also founder of
MyCollegeSuccessStory.com and
EnhanceMyVocabulary.com. He is publisher of
Quintessential Careers Press,
including the Quintessential Careers electronic newsletter,
QuintZine. Dr. Hansen is also a
published author, with several books, chapters in books, and hundreds of articles. He's often
quoted in the media and conducts empowering workshops around the country. Finally, Dr. Hansen is
also an educator, having taught at the college level for more than 15 years. Visit his
personal Website or
reach him by email at randall(at)quintcareers.com.
