Interpreting IQ Test Results: A Comprehensive Guide

I recently took four different IQ tests and received a range of results: 14, 88, 110, and 109. But how do I determine my actual IQ score? It is quite unusual to obtain such varied outcomes from IQ tests. Generally, IQ scores tend to be consistent, and any significant disparities may indicate the presence of errors or external factors.

First and foremost, it is advisable to consult a professional psychologist for a more accurate assessment. These experts have the knowledge and tools necessary to provide a definitive evaluation of your cognitive abilities.

Common Misconceptions

Some individuals suggest that an IQ score of 80 denotes either incredible stupidity or dishonesty. However, such a low score is highly improbable in a well-standardized IQ test, which ranges from 0 to 200. Furthermore, it would be quite difficult for someone with an IQ of 14 to formulate a coherent question on a platform like Quora, making this score highly suspect.

Others recommend getting a professional test done, advising that if one test yields a score of 14, it might as well be a joke. Chances are, your IQ is closer to the average range, around 100.

Among the given scores, it is reasonable to omit the outlier of 14, as it is clearly an anomaly. This leaves us with the scores of 88, 110, and 109. Taking the average of these three scores, we obtain a more accurate estimation of your IQ.

Averaging the Results

To calculate the average, simply add the relevant scores and divide by the number of tests:

(88 110 109) / 3 103

This suggests that your IQ score is around 103, which is very close to the average range.

Managing Outliers

Another approach is to manage outliers - those extreme data points that may skew the results. In this case, the score of 14 is an outlier and should be excluded. The remaining scores are 88, 110, and 109, which average to 103.

Additional Considerations

It is important to note that the method of administering the tests can affect the results. Some tests may be more prone to error or may not be appropriate for certain individuals. It is always best to seek the guidance of a professional to ensure a fair and accurate assessment.

Furthermore, it is crucial to be aware that the scores obtained from online tests may not be reliable. These tests often lack proper standardization and can produce results that are not indicative of true intelligence. For a valid IQ score, it is essential to undergo a professional evaluation.