Angela L. Duckworth
Angela L. Duckworth
Psychologist and Science Author 09 January, 2023

IQ, is a measure of cognitive abilities and potential. IQ tests are standardized assessments that aim to measure an individual’s cognitive abilities and potential. These tests are often used in educational and occupational settings to determine academic and career potential, and can be administered to individuals of all ages. One of the common questions that arise when considering taking an IQ test is what IQ is considered a “genius” level.

The term “genius” is often used to describe individuals with exceptional cognitive abilities and intellectual potential. However, there is no universally accepted definition of what constitutes a genius level IQ. Historically, the term “genius” has been used to describe individuals with an IQ score of 140 or higher. However, it’s important to note that IQ scores are not the only measure of intelligence and other factors such as motivation, personality, and socio-economic background can also play a role in an individual’s success.

Currently, the most commonly used IQ test is the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). The WAIS test provides an overall IQ score and scores for specific abilities such as verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. According to the WAIS, a score of 130 or above is considered high IQ and scores above 145 are considered very high or gifted.

It’s important to note that the scoring of IQ tests is based on a bell curve, which means that the majority of people will score within a certain range around the average score of 100. Therefore, it’s important not to put too much emphasis on the specific score, but rather on how it compares to the general population.

Additionally, it’s important to consider that IQ tests are not the only measure of intelligence and other factors such as motivation, personality, and socio-economic background can also play a role in an individual’s success. Additionally, IQ tests have been criticized for cultural bias and for not fully capturing the complexity of human intelligence. Therefore, while a high IQ score is an indication of exceptional cognitive abilities, it’s not the only indicator of an individual’s potential for success in life.

Furthermore, the concept of “genius” is not exclusively based on IQ scores, but it is a complex and multifaceted concept that takes into account not only cognitive abilities but also creativity, talents, and abilities in various fields, as well as the achievements and contributions to society. Many geniuses throughout history have had high IQs, but they also possessed other qualities that made them exceptional.

In conclusion, “genius” is not a clearly defined term, and there is no universally accepted definition of what constitutes a genius level IQ. Historically, the term “genius” has been used to describe individuals with an IQ score of 140 or higher, but current IQ tests like the WAIS scale, consider scores above 145 as very high or gifted. It’s important to remember that IQ scores are not the only measure of intelligence and other factors such as motivation, personality, and socio-economic background can also play a role in an individual’s success. Additionally, the concept of “genius” is not only based on IQ scores but also on other qualities that make an individual exceptional.

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