The creation of innovative and impactful communication theories depends on improving our theorizing practices. A grounded practical theory analysis of communication theory textbooks and exercises explored representations of theorizing and what it means for students to think like theorists. The analysis suggests that communication theory pedagogy embraces a model of theorizing as practical application where existing theories and deductive reasoning are used to understand communication situations and develop communication practices. Theorizing as practical invention is offered as a complementary approach to theorizing as practical application that centers on the creation of theories and explanations using abduction. Implications for communication theory pedagogy grounded in theorizing as practical invention are presented.