Critical Thinking and Writing with AI 

Challenge a Claim

1. Act as a critical friend. I’ll paste a paragraph about [topic]. Identify its main claim and suggest three possible counter-arguments. [Paste Paragraph]

2. Act as an academic writing coach. I’ll paste a paragraph about [topic] and you suggest where I might need to strengthen my reasoning with evidence. [Paste Paragraph]

Evaluating Evidence

You are an academic writing tutor. I will share a short paragraph or section from my work that includes evidence.

Please identify whether the evidence supports the point effectively.

• Is it relevant and convincing?

• Does it need more explanation or context?

• Is there a stronger or more recent source I could consider?

Do not rewrite my paragraph, just comment on the strength and use of evidence.

[Paste paragraph]

Comparing Theories or Viewpoints

You are an academic tutor in [subject area]. Compare and contrast [theory A] and [theory B] in the context of [topic or case].

Include:

• Key similarities and differences

• Strengths and limitations of each

• When one might be more useful than the other in practice

Then suggest one possible essay question that would allow me to explore these theories critically.

Spotting Assumptions and Bias

You are an academic writing tutor. I’ll paste a short paragraph or argument below.

Please identify:

• Any underlying assumptions or generalisations

• Possible bias in language or examples

• How these could affect the argument’s balance or fairness

Do not rewrite, just highlight and explain potential issues.

[Paste paragraph]

Developing a Balanced Argument

You are an academic writing coach. I want to make sure my work presents a balanced argument on [topic].

Please outline:

• The main arguments for and against

• Possible areas of common ground or compromise

• How to show critical thinking by acknowledging limits or uncertainties.

Identifying Gaps or Further Questions

Act as a critical reader. I will share a paragraph or conclusion from my draft.

Please tell me:

• What questions remain unanswered?

• What assumptions or ideas could be explored further?

• What next step would strengthen the argument or analysis?

[Paste paragraph]

Challenge a Claim

• Highlight the main claim in your paragraph using one colour.

• Use another colour to underline evidence or reasoning.

• Write down possible counter-arguments or opposing viewpoints.

• Ask yourself:

  • What assumptions does my argument make?

  • Who might disagree, and why?

• Discuss your argument with a classmate or Academic Skills Tutor to test its strength.

Strengthening Reasoning with Evidence

• Check whether every claim in your paragraph is supported by evidence.

• Ask:

  • Is the evidence specific, current, and from a reliable source?

  • Does it clearly link to my point?

• Use your reading list to find an additional source that supports or challenges your idea.

• Re-read the paragraph and ask, “Would a critical reader be convinced?”

Evaluating Evidence

• Make a short table with columns for:

  1. Source or reference

  2. Type of evidence

  3. Relevance to your point

  4. Reliability / date

• Identify which evidence is strongest and why.

• Replace weaker evidence with a more recent or credible source.

Comparing Theories or Viewpoints

• Create a two-column or Venn diagram comparing key points of Theory A and Theory B.

• Note their similarities, differences, and underlying assumptions.

• Identify when each might apply best in business or law contexts.

• Write a one-sentence conclusion summarising how they might complement or challenge each other.

Spotting Assumptions and Bias

• Re-read your paragraph aloud and highlight:

  • Over-generalisations (“all”, “always”, “never”)

  • Loaded, emotive or subjective language

  • Missing perspectives or one-sided examples

• Ask:

  • Who is included or excluded?

  • What values or assumptions are implied?

• Re-phrase biased terms in neutral, objective and academic language using academic caution.

Developing a Balanced Argument

• Draw a table with two columns: For and Against your main position.

• List at least three points per side with supporting evidence.

• Identify one or two areas of common ground or compromise.

• Add a short paragraph noting any limitations or uncertainties.

• Aim for roughly equal attention to both sides before concluding.
  
  

Identifying Gaps or Further Questions

• Read your paragraph as if you’re marking it.

• Ask:

  • What questions might a reader still have?

  • Is any concept mentioned but not fully explained?

  • Does the conclusion follow logically from the evidence?

• Note two or three ideas that need further research or clarification.

• Add them to your plan or reading list for the next draft.