There are many different IQ tests in use today, but the most commonly used and well-known is the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) for adults and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) for children. These tests are typically administered by a qualified professional, such as a licensed psychologist or educational psychologist. Some private companies also offer online IQ tests, but the validity of these tests may be questionable.
IQ tests are designed to measure a wide range of cognitive abilities, including verbal comprehension, mathematical ability, and spatial reasoning. The test typically includes a combination of verbal and nonverbal questions, and may include tasks such as solving math problems, completing analogies, and identifying patterns.
It’s important to note that IQ scores are not a definitive measure of intelligence or potential, and that other factors such as personality, motivation, and environment can also play a significant role in determining an individual’s success in life. Additionally, IQ scores can be affected by a number of factors, including cultural and socioeconomic background, and test-taking anxiety.
It’s also worth noting that IQ scores are often grouped into categories, with scores above 130 considered “very high,” scores between 120 and 130 considered “above average,” scores between 110 and 120 considered “average,” and scores below 90 considered “below average.” However, these categories may vary depending on the test and should be interpreted with care.
It’s recommended that if you’re looking to take an IQ test, you should seek out a qualified professional such as a licensed psychologist, educational psychologist, or neuropsychologist who can administer a test and provide an accurate and meaningful interpretation of your scores.
Take the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) to test your verbal and performance-based IQ
The WAIS is an appropriate IQ assessment for individuals over the age of 16. This is the primary assessment used to measure cognitive ability by professionals. Currently, the test involves IQ measurement on four scales: verbal comprehension, perpetual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed.
- The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) is available for children ages 6-16, and the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI) is an accurate IQ assessment for children ages 2-7.
- The WAIS is not considered an accurate IQ measurement for extremely high or low IQs (above 160 or below 40).
Take the Stanford–Binet Intelligence Scale if you are a child or adolescent.
Although the Stanford-Binet test can be used for adults, this IQ assessment was initially developed for children. The age-determined questions are best suited for young children, adolescents, and young adults.
- It is not uncommon for preschoolers to receive a low score on the Stanford-Binet assessment, not because of their intelligence but their unwillingness to cooperate.
Take the Mensa admissions test if you’re on a budget.
Mensa International offers membership to their community for those with high IQs as recorded on their own or other authorized IQ tests. The Mensa admissions test is one of the most widely-available IQ measurements as well as the most affordable. The test is administered at set times during the year and costs .
- Generally, the Mensa assessment takes around two hours.
In addition to the traditional IQ tests, there are also other types of tests and assessments that measure cognitive abilities and potential. For example, aptitude tests measure an individual’s potential to learn a certain skill or subject, while achievement tests measure what a person has already learned.
It’s also important to note that IQ tests are not the only measure of a person’s intelligence or potential. Intelligence is a complex trait that encompasses many different cognitive abilities, and a person’s IQ score is just one aspect of their overall intelligence. Other important factors that contribute to intelligence include creativity, emotional intelligence, and practical intelligence.
It’s also worth noting that IQ scores can change over time. Factors such as education, life experiences, and exposure to new information can all have an impact on a person’s IQ score. Additionally, certain medical conditions or injuries can affect cognitive abilities and lead to changes in IQ scores.
