Review of Stella Cottrell. Critical thinking skills. Developing effective analysis and argument. Palgrave MacMillan, New York. 2011.

The lens through which this book is reviewed is that of an academic involved in a pilot critical skills module for first year university undergraduate students.Twenty-first century graduates are expected to have developed analytical skills, the ability to communicate ideas both verbally and in writing, the ability to deal with complex arguments, evaluate evidence and make balanced judgments.Critical thinking, reasoning and analytical skills are expected to be developed throughout the university experience, in all subjects, and in other areas of students' lives.The reality is however, that for many students, endeavours to develop effective analysis and argument can be challenging, intimidating and sometimes, overwhelming.Depending on the