Critical reading is the ability to effectively question what we read. It helps us go beyond merely understanding text to analyzing it. Being able to read critically translates into writing stronger papers, participating more effectively in discussions, and drawing more accurate conclusions. It also prepares us for professional challenges, where evaluating complex information and making informed decisions is key. By going deeper into the text and seeing what is behind the words themselves, we become more independent thinkers—better equipped to navigate a world full of information.  

Words to Know

Analyze

• (ăn-ə-līz), v.
• To examine methodically and in detail for the purpose of explanation or interpretation.

Bias

• (bī-əs), n.
• A preference or inclination that prevents impartial judgment.

Connotation

• (kŏn-ə-tā-shən), n.
• The implied or suggested meaning of a word beyond its literal definition.

Critical

• (krĭt-ɭ-kəl), adj.
• Expressing judgment, especially involving analysis of merits and faults.

Denotation

• (dē-nō-tā-shən), n.
• The literal or dictionary definition of a word.

Evaluate

• (ĭ-văl-yoo-āt), v.
• To assess or determine the value, significance, or quality of something.

Fictional

• (fĭk-shə-nəl), adj.
• Relating to imaginative stories or literature that are not based on fact.

Impassioned

• (ĭm-păsh-ənd), adj.
• Filled with strong emotion or enthusiasm.

Instructive

• (ĭn-strŭk-tĭv), adj.
• Providing useful information or knowledge; educational.

Ironic

• (ī-rŏn-ĭk), adj.
• Characterized by an outcome or expression that is the opposite of what is expected.

Lighthearted

• (līt-härt-ĭd), adj.
• Cheerful and carefree in nature or tone.

Logical

• (lŏj-ĭ-kəl), adj.
• Based on clear, sound reasoning or valid principles.

Matter-of-fact

• (măt-ər-əv-făkt), adj.
• Unemotional and practical, presenting facts plainly without exaggeration.

Mocking

• (mŏk-ĭng), adj.
• Making fun of someone or something in a scornful or derisive manner.

Objective

• (əb-jĕk-tĭv), adj.
• Unbiased and not influenced by personal feelings or opinions.

Optimistic

• (ŏp-tĭ-mĭs-tĭk), adj.
• Hopeful and confident about the future or a positive outcome.

Pessimistic

• (pĕs-ə-mĭs-tĭk), adj.
• Having a negative outlook and expecting unfavorable results.

Primary

• (prī-mĕr-ē), adj.
• Of chief importance; first or earliest in order.

Purpose

• (pûr-pəs), n.
• The reason for which something is done or created; an intention or goal.

Relevant

• (rĕl-ə-vənt), adj.
• Closely connected to or appropriate for the matter at hand.

Reliable

• (rĭ-lī-ə-bəl), adj.
• Consistently dependable in quality, performance, or accuracy.

Sarcasm

• (sär-kăz-əm), n.
• The use of irony to mock or convey contempt.

Straightforward

• (strāt-fôr-wərd), adj.
• Direct, clear, and easy to understand.

Sympathetic

• (sĭm-pə-thĕt-ĭk), adj.
• Showing understanding, compassion, or support for another’s feelings.

Urgent

• (ûr-jənt), adj.
• Requiring immediate action or attention.