Intelligence Quotient (IQ) is a measure of cognitive abilities that compares an individual's performance against a standardized population of the same age. IQ scores have been linked to educational attainment, job performance, and personal income. Understanding IQ scores and levels can provide insights into an individual's cognitive strengths and weaknesses and help identify potential areas for improvement.
What are IQ Scores?
IQ scores are obtained through standardizedtests designed to measure cognitive abilities across various domains. These tests provide a score that represents an individual's cognitive abilities compared to others of the same age. IQ scores follow a normal distribution, with the average score being 100 and a standard deviation of 15 points. This means that approximately 68% of the population falls within the range of 85 to 115, and 95% of the population falls within the range of 70 to 130.
What are IQ Levels?
IQ levels are a way of categorizing IQ scores into different ranges that indicate an individual's cognitive abilities. The following table shows the classification of IQ scores:
- 130 and above: Very Superior
- 120–129: Superior
- 110–119: High Average
- 90–109: Average
- 80–89: Low Average
- 70–79: Borderline
- 69 and below: Extremely Low
What do IQ Levels Mean?
The classification of IQ scores into different levels provides a way of understanding an individual's cognitive abilities. A score in the Very Superior range indicates exceptional cognitive abilities, while a score in the Extremely Low range indicates significant cognitive limitations.Scores in the Superior and High Average ranges indicate above-average cognitive abilities, while scores in the Average and Low Average ranges indicate average to below-average cognitive abilities. Scores in the Borderline range indicate cognitive limitations that may impact learning and functioning in daily life.
