We offer many different types of IQ tests. The most common are the WISC and the WAIS, originally designed by psychologist David Wechsler. They are the most widely used intelligence tests because they have been exceptionally researched, meticulously designed, and proven to measure what they set out to measure. We can choose verbal and nonverbal tests of intelligence that fit specific questions and populations. There are also virtual IQ tests quickly rising in popularity and acceptance.
We work carefully to ensure that the type of evaluation we choose matches you or your child. We get to know you enough to make that choice, and we’ll educate you so you can make an informed decision. Of course, you can contact us anytime or schedule a consultation to review all of this, but here is some information to get you started.
Different Types of IQ Tests Overview
Here are some common categories of IQ evaluations:
Age-Based Types of Intelligence Tests
IQ shows up differently at different ages. Thus, we often choose the most common one for each age group, including:
- Infant and Toddler evaluations (such as pre-k assessments) assess very young children’s early cognitive development. These intelligence assessments rely less on verbal communication and more on hands-on skills demonstrations.
- Childhood evaluations aim to assess children’s IQ. They are developmentally appropriate for children in the activities they present and the instructions that must be understood. The most common intelligence test for this group is the WISC IQ test.
- Adolescent evaluations are tailored to assess IQ. These usually comprise the harder items in the WISC or the easier items in the WAIS. In other words, when an adolescent takes the WISC, the starting point in each subtest may be later. At this age, we can start considering virtual IQ tests.
- Adult evaluations are designed for individuals 16 years of age and older. The WAIS IQ test is the most common for adults, but others may be used for specific populations. Virtual IQ tests can often be used.
Different Types of IQ Tests for Specific Abilities
IQ generally measures an overall score encompassing many broad cognitive domains, and thus, we use mostly verbal and nonverbal tests of intelligence. Still, in some cases, people want a specific assessment of an individual domain, such as memory, processing speed, or mathematical reasoning. Here are some other examples:
- Fluid Intelligence is thinking logically and solving novel problems without relying on previous knowledge.
- Crystallized Intelligence measures acquired knowledge and skills dependent on education and experience. Vocabulary and general knowledge are examples of crystallized IQ.
- Adaptive Intelligence is an individual’s ability to adapt to new situations and problem-solving skills in real-world contexts.
Different Types of IQ Tests for Other Reasons
Aside from the types of intelligence tests listed above, there are other reasons why we might look to give a different one, such as:
Culture-Fair or Non-Biased Types of IQ Tests
We have some culture fair intelligence test choices for people concerned that certain evaluations may present cultural or socio-economic bias in assessment, such as Cattell’s Culture Fair Intelligence measure. If you are concerned that some of the most widely used intelligence tests may not suit you or your child due to cultural bias, we would be happy to review your other potential choices.
Aptitude Tests
While there is debate about how aptitude relates to IQ, many, most notably Howard Gardner, have theorized that certain skills or abilities relate to a particular intellectual domain, such as music, art, or mechanical reasoning. We can give these aptitude assessments, often combined with one of the more widely used intelligence tests, to describe one of these less common groups.
Different Types of IQ Tests for Groups
Some different types of IQ tests are designed for group administration, such as when a group will work together. It is helpful to tease out specific strengths and weaknesses to ensure that the group output is the best. Some measures are often broken up into specific subsets of abilities so we can compare and contrast among the group to determine the best group functioning combinations. Verbal and nonverbal tests of intelligence can both be given to groups.
Verbal and Nonverbal Tests of Intelligence 
General IQ measures assess overall cognitive functioning and provide a global IQ score. Nonverbal (also called “performance”) IQ assessments focus on assessing cognitive abilities without relying heavily on language skills. An example of one of the most used in this area is the Raven’s Progressive Matrices. This is one of the most widely used intelligence tests for people with a language barrier or for whom the use of language presents a barrier. On the other hand, verbal assessments may be used for individuals with physical challenges that emphasize language-based cognitive abilities, including verbal comprehension and reasoning. For example, the verbal parts of the WAIS and WISC can give information about verbal-side IQ.
Next, we give a more detailed look at verbal and nonverbal tests of IQ.
Verbal Assessments of Intelligence
Verbal evaluations assess abilities related to understanding and using language. They measure vocabulary, comprehension, verbal reasoning, and expressive language skills. Some of the most widely used intelligence tests that are verbally-based are:
- Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS): The verbal section includes Vocabulary, Similarities, Information, and Comprehension.
- Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales: This includes verbal reasoning tasks assessing vocabulary, comprehension, and analogies.
- Peabody Picture Vocabulary (PPVT): Measures spoken words and vocabulary understanding.
- Woodcock-Johnson: Includes verbal comprehension, general information, and verbal analogies.
Nonverbal Assessments of Intelligence
Nonverbal evaluations assess cognitive abilities without relying on language. These are particularly useful for individuals with language impairments, hearing difficulties, or those not fluent in that language. Nonverbal ones measure pattern recognition, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Some of the most widely used intelligence tests that are nonverbal include:
- Raven’s Progressive Matrices: Consists of visual pattern-matching tasks that measure abstract reasoning and problem-solving skills.
- Leiter International Performance Scale: Designed for children and adults, it assesses nonverbal IQ through pattern recognition and logical reasoning tasks.
- Naglieri Nonverbal Ability (NNAT): Uses shapes and designs to measure general ability and problem-solving skills.
- Wechsler Nonverbal Scale of Ability (WNV): Specifically designed for culturally and linguistically diverse groups, it includes Matrices, Coding, Object Assembly, and Recognition.
Verbal and Nonverbal Tests of Intelligence Considerations
Both verbal and nonverbal tests of intelligence play crucial roles in assessing cognitive abilities. Verbal choices focus on language-related skills, while nonverbal ones emphasize pattern recognition and problem-solving without relying on language. The choice between verbal and nonverbal tests of intelligence depends on the individual’s background, language proficiency, and assessment of specific cognitive skills. Nonverbal assessments are often preferred in multicultural settings as they reduce language bias. They are also valuable for individuals with speech or language disorders, hearing impairments, and limited proficiency in that language.
A combination of verbal and nonverbal intelligence tests is often used to thoroughly understand an individual’s cognitive abilities. This provides a more holistic view of their strengths and weaknesses.
Virtual IQ Tests
There are two virtual IQ tests that we give: the Raven’s Intelligence Advanced (RIAT) and the Reynolds Adaptable Intelligence Scale (RAIS):
1. Raven’s Intelligence Advanced (RIAT)
Overview
- The RIAT is a version of Raven’s Progressive Matrices (RPM), a nonverbal measure that measures fluid intelligence, abstract reasoning, and problem-solving.
- It is designed to assess individuals with higher intellectual abilities or those who are “twice exceptional” making it a more advanced version of standard Raven’s.
- It is one of the most widely used intelligence tests online when measuring nonverbal abilities or overall problem-solving is most important.
Structure & Format
- It consists of a series of visual patterns with one missing piece.
- The participant must identify the correct missing piece from multiple-choice options.
- Items progress in difficulty, requiring pattern recognition and logical deduction.
Strengths & Applications
- Culture-Fair: Since it is language-free, it reduces cultural and linguistic biases, making it useful for diverse populations.
- Used for Gifted Assessments: Often included in talent identification programs and Mensa qualification.
- Neuropsychological & Cognitive Research: Applied in intelligence, aging, and cognitive impairment studies.
Limitations
- Does not measure crystallized intelligence (knowledge-based IQ), only fluid reasoning. Thus, it is not among the verbal and nonverbal tests of intelligence that may provide more detailed information.
- No standalone online version is scientifically validated; supervised administration is required for official use.
2. Reynolds Adaptable Intelligence Scale (RAIS)
Overview
- Developed by Cecil R. Reynolds in 2003, the RAIS is a modern intelligence measure designed to be time-efficient while maintaining reliability and validity. It is one of the most widely used intelligence tests online.
- It is one of the few verbal and nonverbal tests of intelligence available online, unlike the RIAT, which is purely nonverbal.
Structure & Format
The RAIS has two main scales:
A. Crystalized Intelligence (Gc)
- Guess What – Measures verbal reasoning and knowledge.
- Verbal Reasoning – Assesses problem-solving with words and concepts.
B. Fluid Intelligence (Gf)
- Odd-Item Out – Measures pattern recognition and abstract reasoning.
- What’s Missing? – Assesses attention to visual details.
Additional Features
- Optional Memory Scales can be included to assess working memory alongside IQ.
- Administration takes about 35 minutes, making it shorter than traditional IQ measures like WAIS-IV or Stanford-Binet.
Strengths & Applications
- Comprehensive: Measures both verbal and nonverbal intelligence.
- Efficient: Shorter than many other measures but still reliable.
- Used in Educational & Clinical Settings: Common for learning disability evaluations, ADHD, autism assessments, and gifted evaluations.
Limitations
- Less widely used than WAIS or Stanford-Binet (though they are not available in full as virtual IQ tests).
- Not freely available for online testing—must be administered by a trained psychologist.
Choosing Between Virtual IQ Tests
| Feature | RIAT (Raven’s Advanced) | RAIS (Reynolds Adaptable) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Nonverbal IQ | Full-Scale IQ |
| Measures | Fluid intelligence (Gf) | Fluid (Gf) + Crystallized (Gc) |
| Verbal Component? | No | Yes |
| Length | 30-40 minutes | ~35 minutes |
| Uses | Gifted testing, cognitive research | Clinical evaluations, learning disabilities |
| Administered Online? | Only under supervision | Only under supervision |
Virtual IQ Tests: Final Thoughts
- RIAT (Raven’s Advanced) is among the best Virtual IQ tests for assessing pure problem-solving ability and abstract reasoning, particularly in high-IQ individuals.
- RAIS is a more well-rounded intelligence measure suitable for clinical, educational, and neuropsychological assessments. For this reason, it is among the most widely used intelligence tests online.
- Neither of these virtual IQ tests has an official self-administered online version—they require professional administration for accurate results.
Summary and Our Work
In all cases, we choose among the most widely used intelligence tests to align with our client’s specific goals and characteristics.IQ assessments are a huge part of our practice, and we make sure to be versatile and integrative with our approach. It all starts with you and what you are looking for, and this section provides a basis for that exploration.
Different Types of IQ Tests for You
So, what will we need to explore with you to pick among the most widely used intelligence tests? Here are some things we’ll consider together:
Different Types of Intelligence Tests for Different Purposes
We’ll work to understand fully why you want or need an IQ assessment. Are you looking for educational placement, clinical diagnosis, or personal interest? The purpose you are coming in with and the questions you hope to answer will guide our choices. The most common types of intelligence tests may not be the ones that fit you. Or we may want to pull together a battery that borrows from several of the most widely used intelligence tests to measure multiple intelligences.
What Cognitive Abilities Are You Looking to Assess
Different types of IQ tests may emphasize different cognitive abilities, such as verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. Some look at less commonly mentioned aspects of intelligence, including emotional IQ and social IQ. We will work with you to consider the strengths and weaknesses of each measure in assessing relevant abilities.
Different Types of IQ Tests Reliability and Validity
We will review the reliability and validity of the verbal and nonverbal tests of intelligence we’re considering. Reliability refers to the consistency of scores over time and across different items, while validity refers to the extent to which the assessment measures what it claims to measure. We’ll want to choose those with high reliability and validity, including assessing virtual IQ tests for goodness of fit.
Considering Cultural and Linguistic Factors
Cultural and linguistic factors may influence performance on IQ evaluations. We will choose those that are culturally fair and appropriate for you. Some of the most widely used IQ tests are inappropriate for every population.
By carefully considering these factors, we can work together to make an informed decision among verbal and nonverbal tests of intelligence to best meet your needs. We may even be able to do your IQ assessment online given the availability of virtual IQ tests like the two listed above.
Contact Us Regarding the Different Types of IQ Tests
If you have questions about the different types of intelligence tests available and which may be best for you or your child, please schedule a consultation or contact us anytime. We serve most states, and many of the evaluations we do can be given virtually. We can help you get certain accommodations at work or school or generally help you better understand your or your child’s strengths and weaknesses. Our goal is to look for opportunities for growth and ways to challenge barriers.
