Smart personality types
Top 8 Smartest Personality Types
There is always one in every group.
The know-it-all who can answer every question at trivia night.
But are they really that much more intelligent or study that much harder?
Or do they have a natural-born edge?
According to the research, certain personality types have a head start on the road to the Nobel Prize or winning the lightning round of Jeopardy.
There are several theories revolving around the mutual effect of personality and intelligence.
From Myers-Briggs’ 16 personality types to the 9 Intelligence types identified by Howard Gardner, it has become apparent that overall intelligence combines traits and experiences.
What is the most intelligent personality type, regardless of how it is measured?
What’s in this post:
MTBI stands for the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.
Psychological scientist Isabel Briggs Myers and her mother, Katharine Briggs, developed this classification system to make the Jungian theory of Psychological types understandable and valuable to the general public.
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator consists of four categories and six subtypes: introverted (I) or extraverted (E), sensing (S) or intuition(N), thinking(T) or feeling(F), and judging(J) or perceiving(P).
Each person is said to have one dominant quality supported by the remaining subordinate categories, producing 16 unique personality types that are relatively accurate in explaining a person’s approach to daily activities.
The Top 8 Smartest Personality Types
The INTx types are most often listed as the smartest. These personality traits, introvert, intuitive, and thinking, tend to excel in areas that define intelligence or aspects measured by traditional IQ tests: abstract conceptual logic and problem-solving.
But which personality type is the smartest?
It is hard to know. Intelligence, like a playground see-saw, is a balancing act. And traditional intelligence does not necessarily correlate to success or even happiness.
#1 Smartest Personality Type-INTJ
These people often have high logical-mathematical intelligence and are good with logical reasoning and analysis.
They also handle numbers easily. Problem-solving is a simple process, and complex theories make sense. These are all talents that allow for high IQ scores.
#2 Smartest Personality Type-INTP
Existential intelligence involves puzzling over abstract ideas, such as the meaning of life. Not surprising, Existential intelligence or thinking for its own sake is actually “the primary life goal” or purpose in life for INTPs.
#3 Smartest Personality Type-ENFJ
One of the rarest personality types, these individuals are incredibly adept at organizing. Great in a crisis, they use their intuitive skills to pivot and adapt.
#4 Smartest Personality Type-ESTJ
Other big brains on the list are ESTJs. ESTJs can combine high intelligence with a strong sense or gut feeling. Born leaders, these brilliant people are always working and thinking. Never satisfied but interested in the next new solution or idea.
#5 Smartest Personality Type-ENTJ
Known for Big Ideas such as the Universal String Theory or solutions to world problems, ENTJ exhibits extroverted thinking.
They can assimilate data from multiple sources and collate them into a workable vision.
#6 Smartest Personality Type-INFJ
Introverted and intuitive, these individuals are among the most intelligent on the scale. And the INFJ is the rarest of personality traits. Highly insightful, they use their intelligence tempered with innate feelings to read an environment and adapt.
#7 Smartest Personality Type-ISTP
ISTPs learn by doing. They are highly detail oriented and have a propensity for troubleshooting. Thus, nothing is beyond their intellectual capacity as long as they can get their hands and head into the game.
#8 Smartest Personality Type-ENFP
Extroverted and passionate, ENFPs combine their intelligence and sensitivity to create possibilities for the future.
They are large-picture individuals.
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Are Other Personality Types Less Intelligent?
There is an ongoing emphasis placed on intelligence.
Who has the highest IQ? Who is the smartest in the class? We even give awards and titles, such as Valadectorian and Suma Cum Laude.
But does a high IQ equate to success and even happiness? According to the MBTI, maybe not.
Several Myers-Briggs personality types show a more social or societal focus, thus scoring lower on IQ tests and earning less income. Many include the sensing and feeling aspects of personality.
ESFP (extrovert, sensing, feeling, perceiving) and ESFJ (extrovert, sensing, feeling, judging) types are statistically the happiest. But why?
ESFPs are typically optimistic, even in challenging circumstances. Their natural positivity can significantly impact how those around them process hard times.
People are often drawn to the ESFJ personality types because they are good at helping others feel good about themselves.
So does that mean these personalities are less intelligent? Probably not.
But it may give insight into what ESFxs find important to spend their time studying – people. In fact, humans are social creatures. And sensing and feeling play a large part in successful social interactions and positive community development.
So, here is the big question. If extrovert-sensor types have developed a way to live in the here and now, leading to everlasting happiness or success, are they not the most intelligent types?
It depends. And just like the nature vs. nurture debate, the argument over street smarts vs. book smarts will be ongoing.
Overview of 16 Myers-Briggs Personality Types
1. INTJ – (Introvert, Intuitive, Thinking, and Judging). The Mastermind.
Other nicknames for the INTJ include The Conceptual Planner or The Architect. Arguably the smartest MBTI type. INTJ is analytic and logical. These individuals are self-disciplined, energized by time alone (Introverted), focus on ideas rather than details, and prefer planning to spontaneity.
2. ENTP – (Extrovert, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving). The Visionary.
ENTPs are idea people. Highly intelligent, they are inspired innovators and motivated to solve intellectually challenging problems. ENTP is a rare personality type, comprising 3% of the general population, 4% of men, and 2% of women.
3. INTP – (Introvert, Intuitive, Thinking, and Perceiving). The Architect.
INTPs are philosophical innovators fascinated by logical analysis, systems, and universal theory. They are also trivia hounds. Also called The Objective Analyst or The Logician, INTP is one of the less common types in the population. INTPs comprise only 2% of women.
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. INFP – (Introvert, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving). The Healer.They can assimilate information but are imaginative idealists guided by their core values and beliefs. Healers excel when dealing with people demonstrating sympathetic idealism and compassion for others—also known as The Thoughtful Idealist and The Mediator.
INFPs comprise 5% of women and 4% of men.
5. INFJ- (Introvert, Intuitive, Feeling, and Judging). The Counselor.
These personality types are creative nurturers helping others realize their potential. INFJs have a strong moral center and a true sense of purpose. They are idealistic and sensitive and are referred to as The Insightful Visionary or The Advocate. INFJ is the rarest type – only 2% of the population.
6. ENTJ – (Extrovert, Intuitive, Thinking, and Judging). The Commander.
They are brilliant, strategic leaders who are highly motivated and enjoy hard work. They thrive on stress but are prone to anger. They can be ambitious, forceful, optimistic, and even egotistical. The rarest personality type amongst women is only 1%.
7. ENFJ – (Extrovert, Intuitive, Feeling, and Judging). The Teacher.
Idealist organizers, ENFJs are energetic and often overextended. They are driven by empathy, and others see ENFJs as natural teachers.
They commonly work in religion, teaching, and the arts. They exhibit pleasant and sociable traits but can be impatient. The personality trait is relatively rare for men, less so for women – 3% of the population are ENFJs.
8. ENFP- (Extrovert, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving). The Champion.
ENFPs are people-centric, focusing on possibilities. They are energetic and passionate storytellers. Filling with enthusiasm, spontaneity, and impulsiveness, common careers for ENFPs include counseling, religion, arts, and teaching. Reasonably common, comprising 8% of the general population, with 10% of women and 6% of men exhibiting this personality trait combination.
9. ESTJ – (Extrovert, Sensing, Thinking, and Judging). This Supervisor.
ESTJs are hardworking traditionalists and consummate organizers — thriving on details. Known as energetic, prejudiced, and self-satisfied, they comprise 9% of the general population, with almost twice as many men and 11% as women. ESTJs are often strong leaders grounded in reality.
They prefer situations with a defined hierarchical command structure. They are usually found in finance and business, trust authority, and expect obedience.
10. ISTP- (Introvert, Sensing, Thinking, and Perceiving). The Craftsman.
ISTPs are observant of detail and have a love of troubleshooting problems. They are knowledgeable and react with flexible logic to the world. More common amongst men than women, the personality trait is known to be critical, guarded, resourceful and independent. Commonly found in skilled trades, law enforcement, and career military.
#11. ESFJ – (Extrovert, Sensing, Feeling, and Judging). The Provider.
ESFJs are people-smart, valuing loyalty and tradition. They are conscientious helpers that act according to a strict personal moral code – expecting others to adhere to their exacting standards. They have a high capacity to cope with stress. An ESFJ is the second most common Myers-Briggs personality combination, comprising 12% of the general population, 17% of women, and 8% of men.
12. ESTP – (Extrovert, Sensing, Thinking, and Perceiving). The Dynamo.
ESTPs are energetic thrill seekers with a good sense of humor. They utilize strong powers of observation to assess their surroundings and adapt, which may explain their natural athletic ability. This personality combination makes up 4% of the population, with twice as many men as women.
13. ISFP – (Introvert, Sensing, Feeling, and Perceiving). The Composer.
These highly aesthetic individuals have a mindful presence, always acting in the moment. They are tolerant and nonjudgmental and commonly found in healthcare careers. This combination is the fourth most common type – 9% of the general population, with slightly more women than men.
14. ISTJ – (Introvert, Sensing, Thinking, and Judging). The Inspector.
ISTJs are driven to create and maintain order within a system. ISTJs are methodical — not interested in big ideas. They value hard work, continuing until a task is completed, regardless of the time.
They like rules, valuing predictability, degrading artistic license, or adaptability. They are the third most common type, with two and a half times more men than women.
15. ISFJ – (Introvert, Sensing, Feeling, and Judging). The Protector.
ISFJ is the most common U.S. Population type, with 14% exhibiting traits. These traits are emphatic, traditionalists valuing convention and enjoying society. While they show conservative, conventional, and reserved features, they are also usually amongst the lowest income types and most likely to believe in spiritual powers.
16. ESFP – (Extrovert, Sensing, Feeling, and Perceiving). The Performer.
ESFPs are vivacious entertainers who charm and engage their surroundings. They have a contagious spontaneity and are talkative. They are known to live in the moment, enjoying life’s offerings. These traits are most common among women. And found in health care, teaching, and child care.
Common Questions About the Smartest Personality Types
What personality has the highest IQ?INTJ (Introvert, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging) type scores the highest on conceptual IQ tests among all 16 personality types.
They are good at consuming large amounts of information and solving analytical problems for widespread application.
ENTJ or extroverts, sensors, thinkers, and judgers tend to be the most financially successful personality types measured by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. These personalities are brilliant and highly motivated– enjoying hard work.
Which is the best personality type?ISFJ (Introvert, Sensing, Feeling, Judging) is known as The Protector. It is the most common personality type in women and occurs in 14% of the population. It may not be the “best” type, as they all have unique qualities. But it is certainly the one you’re most likely to bump into.
What personality type does Einstein have?INTP (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving) was Albert Einstein’s personality type. People with this type are highly analytical, objective, and logical but able to adapt.
Final thoughts
With personality types, as with everything in life, balance is essential.
Our society needs Commanders, Nurturers, Protectors, and Providers to be healthy and thrive.
Personality types are simple outlines that help us understand each other, but they don’t define us as individuals.
No matter what type you are, you have a unique intelligence that you express through your interests, career, and relationships.
There Are 9 Types of Intelligence
You’ve heard of the 16-type personality system, but what about the 9 types of intelligence? The multiple intelligence theory organizes people into different categories depending on where their skills lie. You might be a logician or have strong musical intelligence or anything in between.
If you want to know which type of intelligence fits your personality type, keep reading!
The 9 types of intelligence
The theory behind the 9 types of intelligence was first proposed by Howard Gardner, a psychologist from the University of Harvard.
Gardner outlined his theory of multiple intelligences in 1983 in his book ‘Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences’.
Since then, the concept of multiple intelligences has been developed and expanded. The theory is now used in learning design and education, where it helps to make teaching more inclusive to all personality types. It can also be used alongside personality testing to help give people a better understanding of where their strengths lie, as well as what careers might be best suited to them.
Here are the 9 types of intelligence and the personality types that could match them.
1. Naturalistic intelligence, ISTP
Starting with the most recent type of intelligence added to Gardner’s theory, Naturalistic intelligence is understood as the ability to find patterns and relationships in nature. This personality type is able to catalog information easily and they have an interest in sensory experiences related to nature, including cooking, gardening and camping.
They’re often interested in botany and natural history.
If you’re an ISTP, you might find that Naturalistic intelligence matches your personality type closely. You are practical, observant and able to absorb and categorize information without much effort. You let your senses lead you and you respond instinctively to different situations and different environments. This makes Naturalistic intelligence a good fit.
2. Musical intelligence, ISFP
If you find it easy to recognize rhythms and sounds and identify patterns, you probably have strong musical intelligence. People with this personality type find it easy to remember songs and melodies and probably are good at playing instruments, singing and reading music.
Known as the composer for a reason, the ISFP personality type is skilled at finding patterns and connections and is likely to display high musical intelligence. ISFPs are often creative and committed to the pursuit of beauty through art. This means strong musical intelligence is often at the top of their strengths and their interests.
3. Logical-Mathematical intelligence, INTJ, ENTP, ESFJ
People with good logical-mathematical intelligence find that logical reasoning and analysis come naturally to them. This personality type is skilled when it comes to problem-solving and complex theories. They handle numbers easily and often enjoy conducting controlled experiments to test theories and problems.
Several different personality types match the logical-mathematical intelligence type. INTJ, ENTP, and ESFJ personality types will all likely recognize the traits of logical-mathematical intelligence in themselves thanks to their problem-solving and analytical abilities.
4. Existential intelligence, INTP
Existential intelligence involves asking philosophical questions about the meaning of life and why we are here. People who are strong in existential intelligence enjoy puzzling over complex theories and ideas related to human existence, making them excellent abstract thinkers.
While many personality types might have some degrees of existential intelligence, the personality type that’s most likely to value this form of intelligence is the INTP type.
INTPs are constantly looking to understand life and its complexities, making existential intelligence a top priority for them.
5. Interpersonal intelligence, INFJ, ENFJ, ENFP
For those of us blessed with good interpersonal intelligence, communication is easy. This intelligence type is skilled at both verbal and non-verbal communication. Their strengths lie in understanding the motivations and emotions of those around them and they excel in conflict-resolution.
When it comes to interpersonal intelligence, Feeling personality types are likely to value this intelligence type most highly. These personality types share an interest in helping others and interpersonal connections are extremely important to them. Types like INFJ, ENFJ, and ENFP all work to bring out the best in the people around them, possessing strong communication and relationship-building skills.
6. Linguistic intelligence, ENTJ, ENTP, ESFP, ESTJ
Learning languages, writing and debating are all skills that people with strong linguistic intelligence possess.
Simply put, this personality type is good with words. That means they love reading, learning and speaking. They also find that writing comes naturally to them, regardless of the form or the topic.
People with an extraverted personality type will often favor linguistic intelligence as it helps them to move easily in different social groups. Personality types like ENTJs and ENTPs who enjoy debate and ESFPs who always have a fun story up their sleeves can probably identify closely with this intelligence type. ESTJs may also be a match as they often use linguistic skills to gain authority and respect among their peers.
7. Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, ESTP
You’ll know you have strong bodily-kinesthetic intelligence if you grew up playing sports or doing activities with lots of physical movement. People with bodily-kinesthetic intelligence have excellent hand-eye coordination, dexterity and motor control. This personality type also remembers and learns by doing rather than watching or hearing.
Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence is one of the hardest intelligence types to predict based on personality type as it can vary widely between different people. However, ESTPs will often prefer this intelligence type over others as they like to live their lives on the edge. After all, it helps to have good bodily awareness if you’re doing extreme sports or adventuring around the world.
8. Intrapersonal intelligence, INFP
When someone has strong intrapersonal intelligence, they are extremely self-aware. The process of understanding their own emotions and motivations comes naturally to them. This personality type is also good at analyzing their strengths and weaknesses and they often follow their gut.
The most obvious personality type match for this intelligence type is the INFP. INFPs are sensitive and emotionally intelligent, committed to following their core values and motivations in everything they do. This means they’re likely to value intra-personal intelligence highly.
9. Spatial intelligence, ISFJ, ISTJ
People who rank highly for spatial intelligence tend to think in images and pictures. They’re good at visualizing things meaning that skills like map reading, interpreting charts and graphs and artistic pursuits are a big part of their lives. They recognize patterns in everything they see and this shapes their experience of the world.
Spatial intelligence is often preferred by IS- personality types, especially ISFJs and ISTJs. Both these personality types are detail oriented. ISFJs especially love solving puzzles and approaching problems Sherlock-Holmes style through keen observation.
Which intelligence type matches your personality type?
When it comes to the different intelligence types, most people tend to have a combination of several types. Your personality type might prefer one intelligent type over others or there might be one that jumps out to you above all the rest.
Which intelligence type matches your personality the best? Share in the comments!
6 out of 16: The smartest personality types according to Myers-Briggs
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There are many smart and interesting people in the world.
Each of us can show off our knowledge in a particular area. And sometimes there are those who can strike with their intellect on the spot. Of course, claims about intelligence are always very subjective. And for sure, someone who does not understand one topic will be able to impress you with his knowledge where you do not expect it.
However, if you look at the well-known Myers-Briggs personality types, you will notice that often the six personalities that we are going to talk about are often among the most intelligent. nine0003
INTJ - Strategist
Those who live to learn. We can safely say that thinking is the main tool of INTJ. Such people are able to competently receive and sort the information they receive. They think a lot and evaluate what is happening, so their intelligence is as similar as possible to the one that stereotypically comes to mind when you hear this word.
INTP - Scientist
For them, intellectual work is the main goal in life.
Among INTPs, one can often meet mathematicians and programmers. People with this personality type are very interested in the various logical systems and theories that surround them and are the main controllers of our world. And the extraverted intuition and introverted thinking of the INTP become assistants in complex theoretical work. nine0003
ENFJ — Trainer
The rarest personality type. Such people are intuitive and sensual. These traits help them use their intelligence in difficult life situations. They may not be good at complex calculations, but they will really help during an emotional crisis. If there is an ENFJ in your environment, then listen to his advice. Most likely they will be useful and reasonable.
ESTJ — Manager
They seem to be born to be bosses. In people of this personality type, you can find all the qualities that are ideal for a leadership position. They are hard-working, stress-resistant and able to think ahead. ESTJ is not afraid to take responsibility even in difficult situations.
So when it comes to this personality type, be sure that the person will be an excellent project organizer and will be able to make complex things simple. nine0003
ENTJ - Commander
Extraverted thinking is the dominant ability of ENTJ. People of this personality type are able to use and combine many sources of information. As a result, they create a big overall picture of the required topic. By the way, did you know that Steve Jobs is one of the most famous ENTJs? Did you notice any characteristic qualities in him?
ISTP - Virtuoso
Completes our list of ISTPs who learn by working with their hands. Their intellect shows itself in all its glory when it comes to creation and construction. They are able to create a masterpiece without resorting to guidance. ISTPs, thanks to their innovative thinking, become talented landscape architects or, for example, pilots. nine0003
Nastya Baskakova, Katya Chelenkova
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Personality types | 16Personalities
Analysts
Strategist
INTJ-A / INTJ-T
Imaginative, strategic thinkers with a plan for all occasions.
INTP-A / INTP-T
Creative inventors, with a strong belief in the power of knowledge.
Commander
ENTJ-A / ENTJ-T
Brave, resourceful and strong-willed leaders who always find a way - or make a way.
nine0059 DebaterENTP-A / ENTP-T
Smart and curious thinkers who never turn down an intellectual challenge.
Diplomats
Activist
INFJ-A / INFJ-T
Quiet and mystical, but inspiring and relentless idealists.
nine0003
Broker
INFP-A / INFP-T
Poetic, kind and altruistic personalities, always ready to stand up for a good cause.
Trainer
ENFJ-A / ENFJ-T
Charismatic and inspiring leaders who captivate their listeners. nine0003
Wrestler
ENFP-A / ENFP-T
Enthusiasts, creative and sociable free minds who always find a reason to smile.
Guardians
Administrator
ISTJ-A / ISTJ-T
Practical and factual people whose reliability is unshakable.
nine0003
Protector
ISFJ-A / ISFJ-T
Very responsible and kind protectors, always ready to protect their loved ones.
Manager
ESTJ-A / ESTJ-T
Excellent administrators, unsurpassed specialists in process and people management. nine0003
Consul
ESFJ-A / ESFJ-T
Extremely caring, sociable and popular people, always ready to help.
Seekers
Virtuoso
ISTP-A / ISTP-T
Brave and practical experimenters, masters of all kinds of techniques and tools.
