There are many things to look for when searching for signs of high intelligence, especially with a spectrum as varied as that of the IQ spectrum. Most notably, it must be understood that intelligence and giftedness is something embodied in many people of vastly different personalities and characteristics. There are people with high IQ who are introverted, and as many who are extraverted, some are talkative and others are quiet, some are artistically inclined while others find art in numbers and patterns. The characteristics embodied by those with high IQ vary because at its crux intelligence in one’s ability to adapt to new situations, and since people have unique ways of expressing themselves, then it is only natural that intelligence would manifest in much of the same manner.
Quantifying IQ
The most recent Stanford-Binet test has nine tiers of categorizing IQ that can, for the most part, be clumped together into three main groups: below average, average, and above average (or gifted). Generally speaking, most of the population (about 95%) fall between 70-130 on the IQ bell curve.
Above Average IQ
- Very Gifted 145-160: A very small portion of the population fall into this category, about 0.1 percent, or 1 out of every 1000 people. Researchers are still divided as to whether or not having an extremely high IQ can have negative effects on a person later in life, possibly setting the foundation for depression and anxiety.
- Gifted 130-144: Two percent of the population possesses an IQ within this range. This is the point on the scale where IQ scores begin to deviate away from the cluster of scores shared by the general population. Historically famous composers were thought to have an IQ in or above this range given their innate musical talent.
- Superior 120-129: Various studies have shown doctors, lawyers, and Ph.D holders to have an average IQ of 125. Intelligence in this range would allow someone to quickly comprehend new information, and apply it to various situations more effectively than others.
Average IQ
- High Average 110-119: The High Average range of the IQ spectrum is a slot within which many people fall. They might possess extraverted qualities, confidence, and a great sense of humor. Though evident across all ranges, it might well be best expressed within these few ranges.
- Average 90-109: Most people would fall into this IQ range. Having an IQ classified as average should in no way indicate that those with such IQ scores are less capable of adapting to new situations. Many factors play a role in success, as well as what most people consider “smart,” and requires persistence and tenacity to accomplish.
- Low Average 80-89: With the majority of people falling somewhere along the spectrum between 80-119, finding like-minded, interesting individuals to communicate with is rather easy.
Below Average IQ
- 70-79: For an IQ below what is considered average, cognitive abilities begin to delay somewhat. Comprehension and applying learnings to real world scenarios becomes somewhat difficult with a subtle cognitive delay, as does learning new things.
- 55-69: Many might refer to someone with an IQ such as this as a slow-learner, or someone who might need a more tailored approach to gaining new knowledge.
- 40-54: Within this range, it would be very difficult to live alone, and anyone with an IQ below 55 would most likely require personalized care. With an impairment such as this, cleaning house and accomplishing minor tasks is still possible, however cognitive function would be delayed.
High IQ Societies
Over the years, many high-IQ societies have come into existence. Below you can find information on some of the most well known ones, including their minimum required IQ scores.
Genius Tests