The Secret to Thinking Skills

Understand the subject.

Thinking Skills is a unique test that is poorly understood by most students, so the biggest advantage you can gain is having a proper understanding of the subject.

Thinking Skills is made up of 4 separate areas, Critical Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning and Numerical Reasoning. Each area involves a different set of skills and so is improved through different ways.

Critical Reasoning is the ‘English’ area that tests your abilities of reading comprehension, evaluating reasoning and judging arguments. Though none of the questions will require you to have external knowledge, students with knowledge of a wide range of different subjects will have the upper hand. This is because many questions will involve ideas from science, history, geography, literature and politics. If you want to improve in this area, you should engage in public speaking, debating and read a variety of non-fiction text such as biographies, journals, newspapers and speeches.

Logical Reasoning is the ‘Logic’ area that tests your abilities of data analysis, deductions and strategy. The essence of this area is to use a limited amount of information to solve a problem while following a set of rules. The key to solving these questions is to be patient and systematic, taking a moment to plan your working out instead of diving into the problem. If you want to improve in this area, you should engage in strategy board games, chess and puzzles.

Abstract Reasoning is the ‘Visual’ area that tests your abilities of spatial reasoning and pattern recognition. These are the questions that have picture problems, such as 2D and 3D objects and patterns. Abstract reasoning skills are the hardest to be taught but they are also the easiest to self-improve. If you want to train these skills, all you simply need to do is engage with more questions and activities that require visualisation. For example, this would include drawing, solving a Rubik's Cube, and completing mazes.

Numerical Reasoning is the ‘Mathematical’ area that tests your abilities of quantitative analysis, interpreting graphs and tables and problem solving. It is similar to Logical Reasoning with a lesser focus on logic in return for the addition of math concepts and calculations. In order to improve in this area, there is no need to memorise formulas or complex maths theory since they will not be relevant in Thinking Skills. Instead, focus on practicing your ability to convert paragraphs of english into simple math problems by engaging in scenario-based math questions.

Thinking Skills overlaps heavily with English and Maths so naturally, if you improve in English and Maths, you will also improve in Thinking Skills. If you are looking for tuition, it is recommended to find a specialist tuition for each subject to maximise the return on your time, effort and money.

We would recommend NL English Academy (founded by Mr. Nelson) and

Precision Mathematics Academy (founded by Ms. Rachel).