Myth or Fact
If a post has thousands of likes and shares, the information must be true.
Myth. Popularity does not equal credibility. Even viral posts can spread false information.
Your favorite TikToker says they got an A without studying, so you decide to skip studying for your exam, too. Be so FR… what's wrong with this logic?
One person's experience doesn't guarantee the same results for you.
Your group project partner has not responded to your message in two hours. What is the best first step: accuse them of being lazy or send a respectful follow-up?
Send a respectful follow-up. There may be a reasonable explanation for the delay.
Someone says, “That was certainly an interesting choice,” after seeing your outfit for an event. What might they be implying?
They may be expressing surprise or indirect criticism. However, the meaning depends on their tone and the context.
Repeatedly hearing a false statement can make it seem more believable, even when someone has previously been told that it is false.
Fact. This is called the illusory truth effect. Repetition increases familiarity, which the brain can mistake for truth.
Your group chat swears that a professor is dropping the lowest three exam grades. Nobody knows where the information came from. Are you planning your semester around that rumor?
No. Verify the grading policy in the syllabus or with the professor.
A friend tells you a rumor about another member of your organization. What should you do before repeating it?
Verify the information and consider speaking directly with the person involved rather than spreading an unconfirmed rumor.
Your friend texts, “K.” after you send a long message explaining your feelings. What might that response communicate, and why shouldn't you immediately assume what it means?
It may communicate frustration, disinterest, or simply a brief acknowledgment. Text messages lack tone, so you should clarify instead of assuming.
A person can become more confident in an incorrect belief after being asked to explain the reasoning behind it.
Fact. In some circumstances, explaining or defending a belief can reinforce it, particularly when someone generates supporting arguments rather than critically testing their assumptions.
A classmate copies an AI-generated answer into an assignment because it sounds intelligent. They don't check a single fact. What is the biggest risk?
The answer may contain false information, and submitting it may violate course or academic-integrity rules.
During a group discussion, someone interrupts you repeatedly. How can you address the issue assertively without escalating the conflict?
Example: “I want to hear your thoughts, and I would appreciate the chance to finish my point first.”
Someone says, “I’m not upset,” but avoids the conversation and gives very short answers. What should you consider before deciding how they feel?
Their words and behavior may seem inconsistent, but you cannot know their feelings for certain. Ask respectfully if they want to talk.
Repeating someone's argument back to them in your own words can reduce misunderstandings, even when you completely disagree with their opinion.
Fact. Reflective listening helps confirm understanding without requiring agreement.
During a class discussion, someone confidently argues that their answer must be right because “everybody knows that.” You find credible evidence against it. What should matter more than their confidence?
Evidence and reliable information.
Your team agrees with an event idea because everyone else supports it, even though you notice a major problem with the budget. What should you do?
Raise the concern respectfully, explain the financial risk, and suggest alternatives. Group agreement should not replace critical thinking.
During a meeting, a member says, “Some people clearly didn't take this project seriously,” without naming anyone. What communication strategy are they using, and what problem could it create?
Indirect criticism. It can create confusion, defensiveness, and tension because the concern is not addressed directly with the person or people involved.
The meaning of a message depends entirely on the sender's intentions, regardless of how the receiver interprets it.
Myth. Communication involves both the sender's intended meaning and the receiver's interpretation.
You defend your opinion in a heated debate. Then someone presents credible evidence proving part of your argument is wrong. What is the strongest critical-thinking move?
Acknowledge the evidence, reconsider your position, and adjust your argument if needed.
Two members of your committee disagree about how to handle an event mistake. One wants to hide it to protect the organization's image, while the other wants to address it honestly. How should the committee decide what to do?
Assess the impact, establish the facts, consider organizational policies, and communicate honestly with the appropriate people. Protecting the organization's image should not take priority over accountability and correcting the problem.
A committee leader says, “You can make your own decision, but remember who supported you when you needed help.” What underlying message might this communicate, and how can you respond while maintaining your independence?
It may imply that the person expects loyalty or repayment for past support. You can acknowledge their help while making your decision based on your own judgment, values, and the facts.