- Create mind maps with technical tools. First, you can start using tech tools to visualize your thought processes, gain access to new information, and think more abstractly about the problems you face. For example, you can create interactive mind maps that let you organize different categories of thoughts and related subjects, so you can visualize a high-level rundown of the problem at a glance. From there, it will be easier to spot flaws and brainstorm solutions.
- See problems through others’ eyes. Thinking laterally, or “outside the box,” is the simplest way to think critically. We’re often limited by our own perceptions, experiences, and cognitive biases, and the best way to remove those filters is to see the problem through someone else’s eyes. There are many ways to do this, but the simplest is simply picking someone’s brain about the problem you’re facing—they may bring to light ideas or avenues of thought you hadn’t previously considered.
Source: How to Improve Critical Thinking as a Programmer – DZone Agile