How to Use the 'What Else?' Test for Better Critical Thinking

Ever blamed yourself for a poor result, only to discover later that the real cause was something completely different? You're not alone. The 'What Else?' test is a simple but powerful method that helps you avoid jumping to conclusions and find the true cause behind any outcome. Whether you're analysing a disappointing grade, a failed project, or any puzzling result, this four-step process will sharpen your thinking and lead you to better answers.

Identify the Obvious Explanation

When something goes wrong, your brain loves to offer up a quick explanation. Failed an exam? 'I didn't study enough.' Missed a deadline? 'I'm rubbish at time management.' These obvious causes feel true because they're familiar.

But here's the thing: the first explanation that pops into your head isn't automatically the right one. It's just the most convenient. Before you accept it, pause. Write down that obvious cause, but don't commit to it yet. You're simply noting what your instinct says—nothing more.

Ask 'What Else Could Explain This?'

This is where the magic happens. Instead of stopping at one explanation, force yourself to brainstorm at least two or three alternatives. What other factors could have contributed to this result?

• Were the instructions unclear or confusing?
• Was the material unusually difficult or poorly explained?
• Did external circumstances (stress, illness, distractions) play a role?
• Was the assessment itself flawed or unfair?

Don't judge these alternatives yet. Just get them on paper. The goal is to expand your thinking beyond the first, easy answer. You're building a list of suspects, and each one deserves consideration.

Check the Evidence for Each Cause

Now it's time to investigate. For each potential cause on your list, ask yourself: what evidence would make this more or less likely? Then actively look for that evidence.

If you think unclear instructions might be the culprit, go back and re-read the assignment brief. If you suspect the topic was too difficult, check whether other students struggled too. If you're blaming lack of study time, honestly review how many hours you actually spent preparing.

Here's the crucial bit: the evidence must be relevant. It's not enough to find any old facts—they have to directly speak to the cause you're testing. This step separates genuine critical thinking from wishful thinking.

Find the Strongest Link Between Cause and Effect

You've got your list of causes. You've gathered evidence for each one. Now compare them side by side. Which cause has the strongest, most direct support from the evidence you've found?

This is where you make your final call—but it's an informed call, not a guess. The cause with the clearest, most relevant evidence wins. And if the evidence is split between two causes? That's fine. Acknowledge it. Say 'It seems like both X and Y contributed.' A softer, more nuanced conclusion is far better than a confidently wrong one.

By using the 'What Else?' test, you're not just finding answers—you're building a reputation for clear, trustworthy thinking. You avoid quick blame, you spot hidden problems, and you make decisions based on reality rather than assumptions.

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