How do you make sure to use critical thinking when working on a project?

"When I start a project, one of the first steps I take is to think about what problem I'm trying to solve or question I'm trying to answer. This is key. Otherwise, my project won't have a solid direction and who knows where it will end up, which might just waste everyone's time. In order to make sure that I'm thinking critically during a project, I continually ask myself basic questions about it, which helps to keep me grounded and focused when searching for a solution. This also helps me to keep things simple instead of getting carried away with complicated explanations. I also remind myself to think outside-the-box and for myself, rather than to rely on what already exists."