Critical thinking is the basic building block for nursing school success, going beyond memorizing facts and following procedures to develop true “thinking like a nurse” abilities. Understanding what critical thinking is and how to cultivate it empowers nursing students to excel across their educational journey—from classroom exams to simulation labs, clinical experiences, and ultimately NCLEX and nursing practice. This chapter guides students through understanding how critical thinking supports Tanner’s Clinical Judgment Model, the framework nurses use to notice, interpret, respond to, and reflect on client care situations. Through self-assessment tools and practical examples, students discover key characteristics of critical thinkers. Case studies demonstrate how adopting a critical thinking approach enhances learning outcomes and strengthens clinical decision-making abilities. Practical strategies help students develop their critical thinking skills, improving their ability to develop the analytical skills essential for safe and effective nursing practice. Interactive learning activities and chapter synthesis exercises help students apply and integrate key concepts.