part i: understanding the basic theory of analysis........................1this section provides the foundational theory essential to analysis. it delineates the eight basicstructures present in all thinking.why a guide on analytic thinking?..........1why the analysis of thinking is important..........2to analyze thinking we must learn to identify and question its elemental structures.........4to evaluate thinking, we must understand and apply intellectual standards..........535 dimensions of critical thought..........7a checklist for reasoning..........9part 2: getting started—some first steps. ..........11this section enumerates the most important foundational moves in analysis.think about purpose..........11state the question..........12gather information..........13watch your inferences..........14check your assumptions..........15clarify your concepts..........16understand your point of view..........17think through the implications..........18part 3: using analysis to figure out the logic of anything..........19this section provides a range of sample analyses (as well as templates for analysis).the figuring mind...........19figuring out the logic of things..........20analyzing problems..........23analyzing the logic of an article, essay or chapter..........25analyzing the logic of a textbook..........29evaluating an author's reasoning..........30analyzing the logic of a subject..........31part 4: taking your understanding to a deeper level..........40this section explains the elements more comprehensively, differentiating skilled from unskilledreasoners.analyzing and assessing..........40distinguishing between inferences and assumptions..........48conclusion..........50