How do I use critics effectively?

Most people use critics to support an argument, showing that they have come up with valid points and have read widely around the subject.

However to push this further the key word for me is engage. You must engage with the critic. Do you completely agree with the critic? If so say why and use evidence to show why. Do you partly agree? If so say why you do not fully agree. Do you disagree? You are allowed to disagree with a critic.

Also looking at different fields of thought can be useful, e.g. feminist, marxist. They are often easier to engage with.