Designed as a brief, supplemental text for any course in which critical thinking is a key component, this Concise version of Chaffee's acclaimed Thinking Critically teaches the fundamental thinking, reasoning, reading, and writing abilities that students need for academic success. This streamlined text highlights skill development. Engaging exercises, discussion topics, reading, and writing assignments encouraging active participation and provide structured opportunities for students to develop thinking processes. Diverse readings and assignments covering a range of controversial topics--from AIDS and substance abuse to patriotism--guides students in thinking about complex issues.