What is an IQ test?
IQ tests measure cognitive abilities such as logical reasoning, verbal understanding, spatial visualization, and processing speed, providing a numeric indication of general intelligence.
Are IQ tests accurate?
Professionally administered tests, such as the WAIS or Stanford-Binet, are highly accurate. Online tests vary significantly in quality, but some validated online tests provide reliable estimates.
Can I significantly increase my IQ?
You can improve test-specific skills through practice, but substantially increasing your inherent general intelligence ("g-factor") is generally challenging.
Is IQ determined by genetics or environment?
IQ is influenced by both genetics (around 60-80%) and environmental factors, especially during early developmental years. Genetics become more influential as you age.
Do IQ scores change over time?
IQ scores stabilize after adolescence, though fluid intelligence may slightly decline with age, while crystallized intelligence typically remains stable or even improves.
What is a good IQ score?
The average IQ score is set at 100 with a standard deviation of 15. Scores between 85-115 are average. Scores above 130 are considered gifted, while scores below 70 indicate cognitive impairment.
Are IQ tests biased?
Some tests can have cultural or linguistic biases, but modern IQ tests aim to minimize these through culturally neutral questions.
How are IQ tests used?
IQ tests are commonly used for educational placement, assessing cognitive disabilities or giftedness, psychological research, and occasionally in employment assessments.