Critical Thinking (Still a work in progress)

According to The Foundation for Critical Thinking, "Critical thinking is the intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information gathered from, or generated by, observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication, as a guide to belief and action. In its exemplary form, it is based on universal intellectual values that transcend subject matter divisions: clarity, accuracy, precision, consistency, relevance, sound evidence, good reasons, depth, breadth, and fairness." (Source)

A simpler definition is provided by Wikipedia - "Critical thinking is the analysis of facts to form a judgment. The subject is complex, and several different definitions exist, which generally include the rational, skeptical, unbiased analysis, or evaluation of factual evidence."

When applied to the wide range of paranormal topics, critical thinking means taking a closer look at what is being presented as evidence of ghosts, UFOs/aliens, Bigfoot, and other seemingly supernatural mysteries. It means looking at all the information fairly and separating good information from bad, in order to solve the mystery. 

Critical Thinking is difficult to teach, and I've found that it is more of an acquired skill that develops over years of practice. It includes attention to detail beyond the casual observance. It means going the extra mile to verify claims, facts, specs, and more.