Abstract thinking involves seeing concepts and ideas beyond concrete objects, allowing one to understand complex non-physical aspects of the world. It is used for higher-order skills like problem solving, understanding concepts, and creating art. People who think abstractly are often good at intelligence tests, solving complex problems, and divergent thinking. Characteristics of abstract thinking include conceptualization, symbolic representation, imagination, problem solving, language skills, and adaptability. Abstract thinking can be improved through activities like improvisation, puzzles, modeling, and exploring figurative language.

1. ABSTRACT
THINKING
PR E S E N T E D BY:HusnainAhmed,FaizanZareen,Bilal
Hussain,SaifRoy

2. What Is Abstract Thinking?
Abstract thinking has to do with seeing the context and bigger
picture surrounding an event or idea. Abstract thinkers can reflect
on events and ideas and think beyond just the “here and now”.
“OR”
Abstract thinking is a cognitive process that involves the ability to
understand, analyze, and manipulate abstract concepts, ideas, and
principles. It goes beyond concrete, tangible objects and
experiences, allowing individuals to engage with complex and non-
physical aspects of the world

3. HOW YOU USE ABSTRACT
THINKING
Abstract thinking is considered a higher-order reasoning skill. You
use it when you:
• create things
• speak figuratively
• solve problems
• understand concepts
• analyze situations
• form theories
• put things in perspective

4. The benefits of abstract
thinking
People who are able to think abstractly are often good at:
• Taking intelligence tests
• solving complex problems
• creating art of all types
• coming up with novel options and directions (divergent thinking)

5. Characteristics Abstract Thinking
• Conceptualization: Abstract thinking involves the ability to
grasp abstract concepts and ideas. This includes understanding
concepts like justice, love, democracy, or freedom, which do
not have physical manifestations but represent complex ideas.
• Symbolic Representation: Abstract thinkers often use
symbols, words, or mathematical notations to represent abstract
concepts
• Imagination: Abstract thinkers often have a strong
imagination and can envision scenarios, possibilities, and
outcomes that go beyond what is immediately observable. This
is particularly important in creative and artistic endeavors.

6. • Problem Solving: Abstract thinking plays a vital role in problem-
solving. It allows individuals to break down complex problems into
smaller, more manageable components and develop strategies to
solve them.
• Language and Communication: Abstract thinkers are skilled
communicators because they can convey complex ideas and
arguments effectively using language. They can engage in abstract
discussions and debates.
• Adaptability: Abstract thinkers often excel in situations that require
adaptability because they can generalize principles from one context
to another. They are not limited to rigid, specific solutions.
• Creativity: Abstract thinking is closely linked to creativity. Creative
individuals often think abstractly to generate new ideas, connections,
and artistic expressions.

7. How to improve abstract
thinking
EASY WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR ABSTRACT
• THINKING Improvise:
If there’s an improvisational theater group in
your area, consider taking a workshop that allows you to explore this
open-ended form of performance play.
• Solve puzzles:
3D, visual, and word puzzles will train you to think of
alternatives beyond those that occur to you immediately.
• Build 3D models:
Research has shown that people in science,
technology, engineering, and math professions enhance their abstract
thinking abilities by doing arts and crafts projects.

8. • Explore optical illusions:
Some researchers use art and
photographs with optical illusions to train students to see things
in multiple ways, which is a hallmark of abstract reasoning.
• Play with figurative language:
The ability to write similes,
metaphors, analogies, and even pieces of personification can
stimulate abstract thinking. Think of something concrete and
relate it to something abstract: “On the day he was sentenced,
rain fell continuously, as if Justice were weeping.” Or “The
psychologist made a sexist remark, saying women’s minds were
like bowls of spaghetti.”

9. The Takeaway
• Abstract thinking is the ability to consider concepts beyond what
we observe physically. Recognizing patterns, analyzing ideas,
synthesizing information, solving problems, and creating things
all involve abstract thinking.
• The ability to think abstractly develops as we mature, and we can
intentionally improve our abstract thinking ability by improvising
and playing with puzzles, models, and language.
• Striking a healthy balance between abstract and concrete thinking
is important for maintaining good mental health and daily
functioning.