Which of the following is most likely a characteristic of high quality critical thinking?

Focusing on root causes rather than symptoms is indeed a fundamental characteristic of high-quality critical thinking. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying issues that lead to problems, rather than merely addressing superficial symptoms. By identifying root causes, individuals can develop more effective and lasting solutions, promote deeper understanding of the problem dynamics, and prevent future occurrences. This level of analysis reflects a thorough and strategic thought process, which is essential for effective decision-making and problem-solving in any data-driven environment.

In contrast, proposing a solution as quickly as possible may lead to hasty decisions that do not consider comprehensive data or implications. Presenting results of all analytical tests without critical assessment may overwhelm stakeholders with information but does not ensure that the most relevant insights are highlighted. Similarly, a focus on existing performance indicators may limit the exploration of new opportunities or insights that could lead to improvement since it tends to reinforce the status quo rather than challenge or investigate deeper issues.