Intelligence, a topic of great interest to psychologists, refers to the ability to choose the best option in a given situation, using prior knowledge to solve problems and make decisions. Several tests have been developed to measure different aspects of intelligence.
Types of Intelligence Tests
- Verbal intelligence test: Assesses language skills such as vocabulary, fluency and comprehension.
- Numerical intelligence test: Measures the aptitude for dealing with numbers, including calculations, number series and correspondences.
- Logical intelligence test: Analyzes the logical reasoning ability to solve problems and tasks.
- Spatial intelligence test: Assesses the ability to understand and manipulate complex spatial relationships.
Main Intelligence Tests
- Stanford-Binet intelligence test: Applied to children and adults, it measures IQ and takes 30 minutes to an hour and a half.
- Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS): Measures the intelligence of adults (16 to 64 years old) in two stages (verbal and execution), lasting 90 to 120 minutes.
- Raven’s Test: Evaluates the IQ of children, adolescents and adults by filling in incomplete figures.
- Woodcock-Johnson III (WJ III) Cognitive Ability Tests: Measures cognitive performance and information processing in people of all ages (ages 2 and up).
- Matrix Test: Assesses general intelligence at all ages, using non-verbal stimuli, and is suitable for people with hearing or communication difficulties.
- Reynolds Intelligence Scale: Measures the intelligence and memory of people aged 3 to 94 in 40 minutes, through six subtests.
Specific Tests for Children and Adolescents
- Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC): Measures the IQ of children and adolescents (6 to 16 years old).
- Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC): Assesses the cognitive skills and academic knowledge of children ages 2½ to 12½.
- Reasoning test battery: Measures verbal, abstract, numerical and spatial reasoning ability in children and adolescents (9 to 18 years old).
