IQ Test: What It Measures, How It Works, and What Your Score Means

An IQ test (intelligence quotient) is a standardized exam designed to measure a range of cognitive abilities and provide an estimate of intellectual potential. oai_citation:0‡Verywell Mind

Below is what every test-taker should know:

What IQ Tests Try to Measure

IQ tests generally assess several mental abilities, such as:

• Verbal reasoning and vocabulary
• Pattern recognition and spatial reasoning
• Working memory (holding and manipulating information)
• Processing speed
• Abstract logic and problem solving oai_citation:1‡Riot IQ

These tests don’t aim to measure creativity, emotional skill, or all life skills. They focus on cognitive “g” factors. oai_citation:2‡Wikipedia

How Scoring Works

You start with a raw score (number of correct answers). That raw score is converted to a standard score using a statistical norm. oai_citation:3‡my-iqtest.com

Modern IQ tests use a normal (bell-curve) distribution:

• Mean (average) = 100
• Standard deviation = 15 oai_citation:4‡cogn-iq.org

This means:

• ~68% of people score between 85 and 115
• ~95% score between 70 and 130 oai_citation:5‡cogn-iq.org

Scores above 130 or below 70 are rare. oai_citation:6‡Wikipedia

Major IQ Tests

Some well-known tests include:

• WAIS (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale) for adults oai_citation:7‡Wikipedia
• WISC for children
• Stanford-Binet Scales
• Reynolds Intellectual Assessment Scales (RIAS) — includes nonverbal and memory subtests oai_citation:8‡Wikipedia
• Raven’s Progressive Matrices — focused on pattern logic oai_citation:9‡Wikipedia

Each test has its norms, subtests, and stress on different skills.

Limitations & Critiques

• Test-retest variation: Your score can change slightly if retaken.
• Cultural and language bias: Some items favor certain backgrounds.
• Scope: It doesn’t capture all capacities (e.g., creativity, motivation).
• Statistical error: There is always a margin of error around your true score. oai_citation:10‡Wikipedia

Tips for Taking an IQ Test

• Choose a legitimate, proctored test rather than random online ones
• Be well rested
• Don’t rush; manage your time
• Practice sample logic and pattern problems
• Understand the subtest format (verbal, spatial, memory)

A solid IQ test gives you useful insight about specific strengths and weaknesses, but it won’t define all of your potential. Use it as one tool among many.