In-depth, research-based guides on IQ scores, intelligence testing, demographics and how to take a test — from the IQCognify editorial team.
The full IQ score chart at a glance: look up any score to see its classification band, percentile, rarity, and share of the population, plus the bell curve — the complete reference scale (mean 100, SD 15).
What IQ actually measures, where the concept came from, the g-factor, how modern IQ tests work, and the limits of a single intelligence number.
What counts as a good IQ score? A clear beginner's guide to the average (90–109), high-average and superior (110–129), gifted (130+) and genius (140+) ranges, with percentile context, tables and real-world interpretations.
Savant syndrome is a rare island of exceptional skill alongside a disability. Types, the autism link, real IQ results and famous savants, all sourced.
Most famous IQ scores have no source. We checked 19 famous people, from Einstein to Shakira, and graded each claim as tested, estimated or unsourced.
No record shows Nikola Tesla took an IQ test — the first was published when he was 49. Where 160 and 310 come from, and why 310 is impossible.
Stephen Hawking never published an IQ score — he called people who boast about IQ "losers". Where the famous 160 comes from, what it would mean, and what his record shows.
Photographic memory as most people imagine it has never been proven. What eidetic memory, hyperthymesia and memory champions really show — and whether a great memory means a high IQ.
Numerical reasoning means reasoning with numbers and mathematical relations — which CHC treats as a narrow ability under fluid reasoning, distinct from acquired quantitative knowledge. What the distinction means and what a short test can sample.
“Bias” covers at least six different psychometric questions, and the research answers them differently. Measurement invariance, differential item functioning and predictive bias explained — without a blanket verdict.
An IQ score is a summary of several distinct abilities. What the broad abilities are, how they relate to general intelligence, and how much the separate scores really tell you.
Pattern recognition is the core of non-verbal reasoning tests. How matrix items are built, the rules they use, the mistakes people make — and nine worked examples.
