Critical Thinking & Persuasion: Beyond the GMAT

Taiwanese TV is a constant barrage of noise, and online forums are endless arguments. It’s easy to get lost in it all, whether you’re watching or participating. So today, instead of diving straight into GMAT prep, I want to share some thoughts on a skill that’s invaluable both in business school, at work, and honestly, just in life: critical thinking and persuasion.

First, Don’t Try to Persuade Those Who Are Already Against You

If someone’s already decided they disagree with you, they’re likely not arguing with your points, but with you personally. At that stage, no matter how much effort or sincerity you put in, you’re probably wasting your breath.

“You’re the affirmative, they’re the negative. They have their own position locked in, and you can’t possibly change their mind. So, your real audience isn’t your opponent; it’s the judges watching.”

People determined to find fault will always find a way. Trying to win over someone who’s already dug in their heels is a dead end. Focus on convincing everyone else.

Second, Help the Audience Identify the Core Issue

Pointless debates often devolve into a free-for-all, where the topic constantly shifts without any resolution. A slippery opponent might try to derail the conversation by introducing new tangents—like a squid squirting ink—to distract everyone. Don’t let them. Your next move should be to clearly define “what this debate is actually about.”

Third, Break Down Complex Issues and Identify the “Higher Value”

When facing a complicated issue, the first step is to clearly list all the problems. Then, logically sort them to see which issues depend on others and establish the right order for discussion.

For example, when discussing GMAT preparation, there might be three levels: “ability,” “efficiency,” and “performance on test day.” If you can’t solve problems effectively, speed doesn’t matter. That’s why “improving ability” becomes the higher value.Focus on one thing at a time. If the other party tries to shift the topic, you must bring them back to the truly important higher value.

Fourth, Before You Say It, Consider the Long-Term Value

Here’s a simple way to think about it: Fast forward a few months. If you look back at what you said, will it still hold up? If the answer is no, then you were probably just satisfying an urge for immediate validation.

A person’s time is limited and irreversible; it’s a more precious resource than money. Whether that time creates temporary or lasting value depends on your choice.This is why I no longer respond to provocations or gossip. I know my time can be better spent creating greater value and helping many GMAT candidates, so I don’t need to waste it on people I can never persuade.

And there you have it—a decision-making framework that goes way beyond the GMAT and applies to real life.