Critical thinking and creative thinking are equally important to planning. They’re interrelated, and learning to do both well will increase your effectiveness in completing job tasks that require planning.

Critical thinking is important in planning because it helps to:

• Raise and define questions and problems and ensure that the questions and problems are clear and precise
• Provide structure and logical assessment in what may sometimes be hectic, high-stress, or uncertain situations
• Gather and assess relevant information
• Come to well-reasoned conclusions and solutions, testing them against relevant criteria and standards
• Recognize and assess assumptions, implications, and practical consequences
• Communicate effectively with others to figure out solutions to complex problems