This guide shows how a 'critical' approach is fundamental to all aspects of study from start to finish. It gives practical advice and models for critical thinking and writing, and real examples from students' work. The layout is varied and accessible, with engaging illustrations and an informal, direct style.

Acknowledgements.- Introduction.- PART I: GETTING A CRITICAL MINDSET.- 1. Getting Strategic.- 2. The Language of Assessment .- 3. The Stairway to Critical Thinking.- PART II: GETTING CRITICAL IN RESEARCH AND READING.- 4. A Critical Approach to Reading Lists.- 5. A Critical Search Online.- 6. But is it any good? Evaluating Your Sources.- 7. To Read or Not to Read A Critical Decision.- 8. A Strategic Approach to Reading.- 9. A Critical Record of Reading.- PART III: GETTING CRITICAL IN WRITING.- 10. Answer the Question!.- 11. Writing Paragraphs A Critical Skill.- 12. Writing for a Critical Reader.- PART IV: CRITICAL STEPS.- 13. Using Frameworks for Critical Analysis .- 14. Stepping up the Stairway to Critical Thinking.- 15. Becoming a Critical Writer.- References.- Useful Sources.- Index .

'Be more critical!' 'Too descriptive'
Tutors often say this, but what does it mean? And how do you achieve that 'critical' approach you need for the higher grades? This practical guide shows you how. It:

- explains what 'getting critical' means and why you need a critical approach to your work
- gives practical advice on getting critical in your research and reading
- shows you what critical writing looks like and how to write critically

This new edition has more on developing argument in essays, on reading strategies and detailed examples of student writing.
Kate Williams manages the Upgrade Study Advice Service at Oxford Brookes University, UK. She is Series Editor of the Pocket Study Skills.

A concise, accessible guide to what 'getting critical' means and why students need to adopt a critical approach in their work
Contains uptodate scenarios and lively illustrations

Expanded section on reading strategies – to underpin a critical approach to reading

Examples of student writing with detailed pointers to where it is and is not 'critical'

New section on developing argument in essays, through structure and language