6. Ask lots of open-ended questions. Curiosity is a key trait of critical thinkers, so channel your inner child and ask lots of questions about who, what and why. 7. Find your own reputation. For example, critical thinking is defined as: • “the propensity and ability to engage in an activity in a reflective manner.” skepticism” McPeck, 1981, p. Lai, 2011, p. 6, • “thought.”