Logical thinking is a type of reasoning in which rational relationships are established between concrete and/or abstract elements and conclusions are inferred from premises . For example: Solving an equation, since abstract symbols are related and manipulated.
Logical thinking is coherent because one idea derives from another and is orderly because a relationship between the elements is first established and then a resolution is reached.
According to Jean Piaget, a Swiss psychologist and biologist, logical thinking develops in different stages until reaching the period of formal operations (between 11 and 17 years of age), in which it is possible to perform the operations of combination, causality, correlation, probability and proportion in relation to abstract concepts or symbols .
This type of thinking is used in everyday life to find solutions to problems; analyze and compare concrete and abstract situations and objects; establish similarities, differences, and similarities between phenomena; argue points of view; and formulate or demonstrate abstract and complex ideas.
Furthermore, logical thinking is used in science, because different mental operations (such as generalization , abstraction, comparison , differentiation, classification and conceptualization) are performed to formulate solutions and to produce theories that contain valid and objective knowledge.
- It may be useful to you: Convergent and divergent thinking
Characteristics of logical thinking
Logical thinking is:
- Relational. Two or more elements are related, which may be concrete or abstract.
- Deductive. It starts from premises, which are generalizations, to arrive at a conclusion , which is the explanation of a particular case.
- Correct. Ideas are developed that are valid because they correlate with the real world.
- Rational. Reasoning is based on methodical principles and with the aim of achieving a goal.
- Innovative. Ideas are developed that change concepts and theories.
- Sequential. It starts from one idea to another or from a series of premises to arrive at a resolution.
- Analytical. A phenomenon is studied by examining each of its parts in an orderly manner.
Examples of logical thinking
- Solving algebraic problems. Solving algebraic problems requires logical thinking because different calculations are performed in an orderly manner.
- Mathematical operations. To perform mathematical operations, logical thinking is used because abstract symbols must be manipulated.
- Hypothesis development. To develop a hypothesis, logical thinking is used because it involves interconnecting different elements and complex concepts.
- Riddle-solving. Solving riddles requires logical thinking because you must analyze a statement and relate it to your prior knowledge in order to discover the correct answer.
- Identifying the causes of a phenomenon. To identify the causes of a phenomenon, logical thinking is used because it is necessary to demonstrate how different elements or events are connected.
- Solving puzzles. Solving puzzles requires logical thinking because you must relate the characteristics and combinations of concrete objects or abstract concepts.
- Assembling the Rubik’s Cube. To assemble this cube, you need to use logical thinking because each move must be premeditated and executed in conjunction with subsequent moves.
- Formulating a strategy in checkers .Formulating this type of strategy requires logical thinking because you must consider how your opponent will react to each move.
- Building a computer system. Building a computer system requires logical thinking because connections must be created between different hardware and software elements and functions .
- Data classification. To understand and classify data, logical thinking is used because the characteristics of the variables of the objects being studied must be analyzed and compared.
