The theory of multiple intelligences, developed by Dr. Howard Gardner suggests that the traditional idea of intelligence, based on I.Q. testing, is far too limited. It differentiates our intelligence into the primary attributes we possess. The theory may help us figure out how to succeed in learning and life. All people have varying levels of aptitude in each of the multiple intelligences. Which is your dominating intelligence? Find out here:
Quiz: Which of Gardner's "Smarts" Feels Most Like You?
Howard Gardner described several kinds of ability, from words and numbers to music and nature. Pick the answers that sound most like you and find the strength you lean on most.
On a free afternoon you would most enjoy…
At school, you were often the one who…
You learn something new best by…
Friends would most likely ask you to…
Which gift would make you happiest?
When you remember a holiday, you recall most clearly…
A job that sounds appealing would be…
When you are stressed, what helps most?
Which statement sounds most like you?
Word smart (linguistic)
You think and express yourself through language. Reading, writing, storytelling and finding the right word come naturally to you. That gift helps you teach, persuade and connect.
Logic smart (logical-mathematical)
You enjoy patterns, numbers and reasons. You like to understand how things work and solve problems step by step. That clear thinking is valuable in almost every field.
Picture and music smart (spatial and musical)
You notice shapes, colours, rhythms and sounds that others miss. You may think in images or melodies. Your senses give you a rich, creative way of understanding the world.
Body and nature smart (bodily-kinesthetic and naturalist)
You learn by doing and feel at home outdoors. Moving, building and caring for plants and animals help you think. Your hands-on understanding is a real strength.
People smart (interpersonal)
You read moods, build bridges and bring people together. Others feel understood around you. That warmth makes you a natural friend, leader and team player.
Self smart (intrapersonal and existential)
You know your own mind and enjoy reflecting on life's big questions. Your self-awareness helps you make thoughtful choices. People often value your calm, considered perspective.
This is a light, playful reflection, not a psychological test or a scientific assessment. Gardner's theory is debated, and everyone uses a mix of these abilities.
Howard Gardner, a Harvard psychologist, set out the theory in Frames of Mind in 1983, first with seven intelligences and later adding an eighth, naturalistic intelligence; existential intelligence is sometimes counted as a ninth. The theory is popular in education, but critics, among them the psychologist Russell Warne, argue that tests of these abilities still correlate with one another, which supports a general intelligence factor, and that the theory is hard to test. A quiz result is best read as a prompt for reflection about strengths, not a measurement. Sources: Riot IQ, August 2025: Russell T. Warne on whether there are multiple intelligencesAbout the theory
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