8 Different Types of Intelligence (and What They Excel At)
Psychologist Howard Gardner suggested that there are eight different types of intelligence. Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences redefines how we understand intelligence, emphasizing diverse cognitive abilities beyond traditional IQ. This article explores Gardner’s theory and how it compares to other theories. It also discusses the characteristics of each of the different types of intelligence. Key…
Psychologist Howard Gardner suggested that there are eight different types of intelligence. Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences redefines how we understand intelligence, emphasizing diverse cognitive abilities beyond traditional IQ.
This article explores Gardner’s theory and how it compares to other theories. It also discusses the characteristics of each of the different types of intelligence.
Key Takeaways
- Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences expands the traditional view of intelligence beyond IQ scores, identifying eight distinct types of intelligence.
- The theory suggests that intelligence is not a single mental ability but a combination of different cognitive strengths.
- Critics argue that many of these ‘intelligences’ align more with talents or personality traits than true intelligence.
- Despite limited empirical support, Gardner’s theory remains influential, particularly in education, where it encourages diverse teaching methods.
What Is Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences?
Gardner’s theory suggests that intelligence isn’t just one general ability. Instead, people possess various types of intelligence, such as linguistic, logical-mathematical, and interpersonal, which reflect different ways of processing information and solving problems.
According to Gardner’s theory, there are eight different types of intelligence: linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic. Each of these intelligences represents a unique way of processing information and solving problems.
While conventional views of human intelligence focus on an individual’s intellectual potential, the theory of multiple intelligences suggests that intelligence is more than just a single general mental ability. First introduced by Harvard psychologist Howard Gardner in his 1983 book Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences, the theory suggests that people may possess different types of intelligence.
In other words, the theory suggests that there is more than one way to be smart.
Multiple Intelligences vs. General Intelligence
Intelligence research suggests that people possess a broad mental capacity that controls many cognitive abilities. Most modern intelligence tests are designed to measure this general intelligence and express it as a single number, or IQ score.
Cognitive factors that make up this general intelligence include fluid reasoning, working memory, visual-spatial processing, general knowledge, and quantitative reasoning.
Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences suggests that the traditional definition of intelligence is too limited and restricted. Instead, it suggests that people can be intelligent in ways not usually captured by IQ tests.
The 8 Multiple Intelligences
Gardner originally proposed seven distinct types of intelligence. An eighth intelligence was added in the mid-1990s.
The eight types of intelligence are:
- Musical-rhythmic intelligence
- Visual-spatial intelligence
- Verbal-linguistic intelligence
- Logical-mathematical intelligence
- Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence
- Interpersonal intelligence
- Intrapersonal intelligence
- Naturalistic intelligence
Musical-Rhythmic Intelligence
People with high musical intelligence tend to be more sensitive to music, sounds, rhythms, and tones. They have a natural talent for playing music and may also enjoy singing or composing songs. They enjoy musical performances and are good at understanding and identifying musical concepts such as timbre, harmony, pitch, and melody.
Career Options
People who have strong musical-rhythmic type of intelligence may enjoy music-related careers such as becoming a:
- Singer
- Musician
- Composer
- Music teacher
- Sound engineer
Visual-Spatial Intelligence
People who are strong in visual-spatial intelligence are good at visualizing objects and spaces in their minds. They tend to be very good at navigating and following directions. They are also usually good at interpreting pictures, maps, and charts.
Those high in this type of intelligence often enjoy putting together puzzles, are good at recognizing patterns, and love the visual arts.
Career Options
People with great visual-spatial intelligence often excel at careers in art, engineering, architecture, and design.
Some good career options include:
- Graphic designer
- Painter
- Interior designer
- Architect
- Pilot
- Landscape designer
- Photographer
- Engineer
- Surgeon
- Sculptor
Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence
People who are strong in verbal-linguistic intelligence are good with language and words. They excel at writing, reading, and storytelling. Other skills include remembering things that they read and hear.
This type of intelligence is also marked by the ability to explain what they have learned to others. They are also skilled at persuading others and debating issues.
Career Options
People who have strong verbal-linguistic intelligence may excel in a career as a:
- Writer
- Journalists
- Teachers
- Lawyers
- Speech-language therapist
Logical-Mathematical Intelligence
Those who are high in logical-mathematical intelligence are good with numbers. They excel at seeing patterns and relationships. They are also very good at thinking logically and conceptually. People with this type of intelligence are good at math and science. They also enjoy thinking about abstract, complex subjects.
Career Options
Careers that may appeal to people with logical-mathematical intelligence include:
- Scientist
- Mathematician
- Engineer
- Accountant
- Computer programmer
- Data analyst
- Statistician
Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence
People with a lot of bodily-kinesthetic intelligence have good coordination and are skilled at movement, action, and physical control. They are often very good at sports and dance.
People with this intelligence type tend to prefer tactile learning or hands-on activities and often enjoy making things. They also often prefer learning by doing rather than through reading or listening to lectures.
Career Options
Some of the careers that might appeal to people who have strong bodily-kinesthetic intelligence include:
- Athlete
- Actor
- Carpenter
- Dancer
- Physical therapist
Interpersonal Intelligence
People who have a great deal of interpersonal intelligence are good at understanding and interacting with other people. They are in touch with other people’s emotions and moods. If you are strong in this area, you are probably good at understanding other people’s temperaments, motivations, and needs. This does not necessarily mean that you are an outgoing extrovert or group leader, but it does mean that you are good at empathizing and relating to others.
Career Options
If you have a great deal of interpersonal intelligence, you might want to consider a career as a:
- Salesperson
- Therapist
- Counselor
- Psychologist
- Social worker
- Manager
Intrapersonal Intelligence
People who have strong intrapersonal intelligence excel at introspection and self-reflection. They tend to be very aware of their own emotions, motivations, and feelings. They are also good at knowing their own strengths and weaknesses.
Career Options
People with strong intrapersonal intelligence often do well in fields that involve reflection and self-awareness, such as:
- Philosopher
- Poet
- Writer
- Scientist
- Entrepreneur
- Clergy person
Naturalistic Intelligence
This type of intelligence was not originally part of Gardner’s theory but was later suggested as part of the main eight intelligences. Gardner suggested that people with this type of intelligence are more connected to nature. They have a strong ecological awareness and enjoy spending time in the natural world and learning more about nature and other species.
Career Options
For people with a dominant sense of naturalistic intelligence, careers that might appeal include:
- Biologist
- Conservationist
- Gardener
- Farmer
- Botonist
- Geologist
Other Types of Intelligence
Gardner has also suggested that there may also be other different types of intelligence as well. Some others that have been suggested include spiritual intelligence, moral intelligence, and existential intelligence.
Existential intelligence is a proposed addition to the original theory characterized by an ability to think philosophically. People with this type of intelligence are good at looking at the big picture. They have a strong sense of intuition and excel and thinking about the future. They enjoy thinking about the purpose of life and other deep, often philosophical or spiritual questions.
Job options that might appeal to someone with this type of intelligence include:
- Counselor
- Life coach
- Psychologist
- Pastor
- Philosopher
- Yoga instructor
- Meditation guide
- Motivational speaker
What Research Says About Multiple Intelligences
While Gardner’s theory has gained popularity, particularly in the field of education, the concept of multiple intelligences has been criticized and remains poorly supported by research.
One of the main criticisms of the theory centers on how Gardner defines intelligence. Many of the things that the theory labels as ‘intelligence,’ critics argue, are actually more related to personality traits, talents, and abilities.
One study found that the different types of intelligence described by Gardner represent aspects of general intelligence and personality characteristics, cognitive abilities, and non-cognitive abilities.
Another study found that three of the multiple intelligences, musical, logical-mathematical, and visual-spatial intelligence, were positively correlated with IQ scores. The study also found that even children who scored low on IQ showed strengths in other forms of intelligence
While the concept of general intelligence and its measurement does not remain without controversy, research indicates that people do have an underlying mental ability that plays a role in performance on a variety of cognitive tasks.
Impact of Multiple Intelligences
The theory of different types of intelligence has received little acceptance and support in the field of psychology. In education, it is often misconstrued as learning styles, which suggests that children should receive instruction that is aligned with how they learn best.
While Gardner’s theory has not been well-validated through empirical research, it has continued to be popular for several reasons. In education, it is often used as a way to think about student strengths.
Gardner has suggested that the purpose of formal education should be to help people develop skills and find a job best suited to their strongest areas of intelligence.
Why Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligence Is Important
Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences is important because it challenges the traditional view of intelligence as a single, unitary construct that can be measured by standardized tests. Gardner proposed that intelligence is not a singular ability. Instead, it conceptualized it as a combination of different abilities that are relatively independent of each other.
The importance of Gardner’s theory lies in its potential to broaden our understanding of what it means to be intelligent and how individuals can excel in different areas. This has significant implications for education. It suggests that teaching methods should be tailored to individual student’s strengths and learning styles instead of relying on traditional methods prioritizing linguistic and logical-mathematical intelligence.
Gardner’s theory has also influenced fields beyond education, such as psychology, neuroscience, and business. For example, it has been used to inform the design of workplace environments and training programs that consider different types of intelligence.
Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences is important because it challenges our assumptions about intelligence and encourages us to recognize and value the diversity of human potential.
Discover Which Type of Intelligence You Have
Take the quiz to learn more about which type of intelligence is your most dominant strength.
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Your Dominant Intelligence Type: Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence
You’ve got a way with words! Scoring high in Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence means you excel at expressing yourself, whether through speaking, writing, or even crafting a well-timed joke. Words are your playground, and you likely find yourself drawn to activities that involve reading, storytelling, or even debating.
This type of intelligence isn’t just about having a rich vocabulary; it’s also about understanding the nuances of language—like how to craft a compelling narrative or deliver a powerful speech. You might find that people come to you for advice on how to phrase something just right or how to communicate a complex idea simply.
What Can You Do with This Insight?
Lean into it! If you’re not already, consider exploring careers or hobbies that allow you to use your linguistic talents. Writing, teaching, law, or even public speaking are all great outlets for someone with your skills. You might also enjoy creative writing, whether it’s poetry, fiction, or even blogging about topics you’re passionate about.
But it’s not just about work. Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence can also enrich your personal life. You’re probably great at expressing your feelings, so use that to build deeper connections with the people around you. Whether it’s writing heartfelt letters, telling captivating stories, or simply being the go-to person for advice, your words have power—don’t be afraid to use them.
Pro Tip: To further develop your linguistic abilities, try learning a new language, joining a book club, or even engaging in word games like crossword puzzles. Keep pushing your boundaries, and you’ll find that your love for language can open even more doors.
Your Dominant Intelligence Type: Logical-Mathematical Intelligence
Numbers, patterns, and problem-solving—these are your strong suits. If you scored high in Logical-Mathematical Intelligence, you're likely someone who enjoys figuring out how things work. Whether it's solving puzzles, analyzing data, or breaking down complex problems into manageable parts, you thrive on logical reasoning and critical thinking.
This type of intelligence isn’t just about being good at math (though you probably are!). It’s about seeing connections, understanding systems, and applying your analytical skills to real-world situations. You might find that you’re the one who always spots inconsistencies or comes up with solutions that others miss. Your brain loves to organize and categorize information, making you a natural at tasks that require strategic planning or deep analysis.
What Can You Do with This Insight?
Embrace it! Your logical mind makes you a great fit for careers in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. But your skills aren’t limited to these fields—any job that involves problem-solving, data analysis, or strategic thinking could be a great match. Even in your personal life, you probably enjoy activities like playing strategy games, managing budgets, or optimizing systems.
Don’t just stop at what you already know you’re good at. Continue challenging yourself with complex problems—try coding, delve into advanced mathematics, or even take up a hobby like chess or Sudoku. Your ability to think logically and critically is a powerful tool that can help you excel in various areas of life.
Pro Tip: To further develop your Logical-Mathematical Intelligence, engage in activities that require abstract thinking, such as studying philosophy or logic puzzles. Keep questioning, keep analyzing, and keep solving—the more you exercise this muscle, the sharper it becomes.
Your Dominant Intelligence Type: Visual-Spatial Intelligence
You see the world in vivid color and detail. If you scored high in Visual-Spatial Intelligence, you have a knack for visualizing objects, spaces, and relationships between them. Whether it's navigating your way through a new city, assembling furniture without the instructions, or creating stunning art, your mind is always working in images and patterns.
This type of intelligence isn’t just about being good at drawing or recognizing faces (though you might be!). It’s about how you perceive and interpret the world around you. You’re likely skilled at thinking in 3D, imagining how things fit together, and solving problems with your mind’s eye. Whether you’re arranging furniture in a room or designing a graphic layout, you have a natural ability to see how things will look and work before they’re even in front of you.
What Can You Do with This Insight?
Lean into it! Your visual-spatial skills are perfect for careers that involve design, architecture, photography, or even engineering. But don’t limit yourself—any field that requires creativity, visualization, or an understanding of spatial relationships could be a great fit for you. In your personal life, you might enjoy hobbies like drawing, painting, or even playing video games that require strategic visual thinking.
Your talent for visualizing and creating can also help you in everyday situations. From organizing your living space to planning events, you can use your spatial awareness to make things more efficient and visually appealing. Don’t be afraid to explore new creative outlets or take on projects that challenge your visual-spatial skills.
Pro Tip: To further develop your Visual-Spatial Intelligence, try activities that challenge your perception, such as photography, 3D modeling, or even exploring virtual reality. Keep experimenting with different mediums and techniques—your unique perspective can lead to incredible results.
Your Dominant Intelligence Type: Musical-Rhythmic Intelligence
You march to the beat of your own drum—literally! If you scored high in Musical-Rhythmic Intelligence, sound is your language. Whether it’s identifying the key of a song, creating your own tunes, or just appreciating the rhythm of life around you, you have a deep connection to music and rhythm. You might find yourself tapping your fingers to a beat, humming a tune that’s stuck in your head, or even remembering information better when it’s set to music.
This type of intelligence isn’t just about playing an instrument (though you might excel at that, too). It’s about recognizing patterns in sound and being sensitive to the nuances of pitch, tone, and rhythm. You probably have a great ear for music and might even find that you’re able to pick up new instruments or musical concepts quickly. Whether it’s composing, performing, or just enjoying music on a deep level, your brain is wired to process and create sound in unique ways.
What Can You Do with This Insight?
Harness it! Your musical abilities can open doors to careers in music, whether it’s performing, composing, teaching, or producing. But your talents can also be applied in unexpected ways—sound engineering, therapy, or even marketing (think about the impact of jingles and sound design). In your personal life, you might find joy in joining a band, singing in a choir, or simply diving deeper into music theory or production.
Music is more than a hobby for you—it’s a way of understanding the world. Use your sensitivity to sound to enhance your environment, whether it’s curating the perfect playlist, exploring new genres, or even creating soundscapes that help you and others relax, focus, or feel inspired.
Pro Tip: To further develop your Musical-Rhythmic Intelligence, try experimenting with new instruments, recording your own music, or even attending live performances to soak in different styles and techniques. Keep pushing your auditory boundaries—your musical journey is just getting started.
Your Dominant Intelligence Type: Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence
You’re a master of movement! If you scored high in Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence, you have a natural ability to control your body and handle objects with grace and precision. Whether it’s dancing, playing sports, or even doing something as simple as assembling a piece of furniture, you have a strong awareness of your body and how it moves through space.
This type of intelligence isn’t just about being physically fit (though that’s a bonus!). It’s about using your body to solve problems, express ideas, or create something tangible. You might find that you learn best by doing rather than just reading or listening. You’re the type of person who needs to get hands-on with a task to truly understand it. Whether it’s mastering a new skill, fixing things around the house, or performing on stage, you thrive when you can engage your body in your activities.
What Can You Do with This Insight
Channel it! Your physical intelligence makes you a great fit for careers that involve movement, such as athletics, dance, physical therapy, or even acting. But your skills can be applied in many other areas too—think about careers in construction, surgery, or anything that requires fine motor skills and physical coordination. In your personal life, you probably enjoy staying active, whether it’s through sports, yoga, or hands-on hobbies like woodworking or gardening.
Don’t be afraid to explore new ways to use your body’s abilities. Whether it’s trying a new sport, taking up a new craft, or even learning martial arts, your body is a powerful tool that can help you achieve incredible things.
Pro Tip: To further develop your Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence, try activities that challenge your coordination and dexterity, such as juggling, dancing, or even learning to play a musical instrument that requires fine motor skills. Keep moving, keep exploring, and let your body guide you to new experiences.
Your Dominant Intelligence Type: Interpersonal Intelligence
You're a people person! If you scored high in Interpersonal Intelligence, you have a natural talent for understanding and interacting with others. Whether it's sensing someone’s mood, resolving conflicts, or simply making others feel comfortable, you thrive in social situations and excel at building connections.
This type of intelligence isn’t just about being sociable (though you probably are!). It’s about truly understanding the emotions, motivations, and perspectives of those around you. You might find that people often come to you for advice or to talk through their problems because they trust your empathy and insight. Whether you’re collaborating on a team, leading a group, or simply being a supportive friend, your ability to navigate social dynamics is a strength that not everyone has.
What Can You Do with This Insight?
Leverage it! Your interpersonal skills make you a great fit for careers that involve working closely with others, such as teaching, counseling, social work, or management. But your talents can be useful in virtually any field where relationships are key—think sales, human resources, or customer service. In your personal life, you likely enjoy activities that involve social interaction, like volunteering, organizing events, or just spending quality time with loved ones.
Your ability to understand and relate to others can help you foster deeper connections and create positive environments wherever you go. Don’t shy away from roles or opportunities that allow you to use your interpersonal skills to bring people together or resolve conflicts.
Pro Tip: To further develop your Interpersonal Intelligence, consider joining groups or clubs where you can interact with new people, or take on leadership roles that challenge you to use your social skills in new ways. Practice active listening and empathy-building exercises to continue honing your ability to connect with others on a deeper level.
Your Dominant Intelligence Type: Intrapersonal Intelligence
You’re in tune with yourself. If you scored high in Intrapersonal Intelligence, you have a strong awareness of your own thoughts, feelings, and motivations. This type of intelligence is all about self-reflection and understanding who you are at your core. You likely spend time thinking about your goals, values, and what truly drives you, and you have a natural ability to analyze your own emotions and behavior.
This doesn’t mean you’re always introspective or introverted, but you do have a deep understanding of yourself that others might admire. You’re the type of person who knows what makes you tick, and you use that self-knowledge to make decisions that align with your true self. Whether it’s setting personal goals, reflecting on past experiences, or making changes to improve your life, you excel at navigating your inner world.
What Can You Do with This Insight?
Harness it! Your self-awareness is a powerful tool that can help you in any field that requires self-discipline, independence, or personal growth. Careers in counseling, coaching, writing, or any role that involves personal development could be a great fit for you. You might also find that you enjoy activities like journaling, meditation, or other practices that allow you to explore your inner world even further.
Your ability to understand yourself can also help you in your relationships and everyday life. By knowing your strengths and weaknesses, you can make choices that align with your values and avoid situations that don’t serve you. Don’t be afraid to use your self-awareness to guide your decisions and help others develop a deeper understanding of themselves, too.
Pro Tip: To further develop your Intrapersonal Intelligence, continue exploring practices like mindfulness, self-reflection, and goal-setting. Consider taking time to journal regularly, engage in personal growth activities, or even work with a coach or therapist to deepen your understanding of yourself. The more you explore your inner world, the more you’ll unlock your potential.
Your Dominant Intelligence Type: Naturalistic Intelligence
You have a deep connection to the natural world. If you scored high in Naturalistic Intelligence, you’re someone who notices and appreciates the beauty and complexity of nature. Whether it’s recognizing different species of plants and animals, understanding ecosystems, or simply feeling at peace in the great outdoors, you have a natural affinity for the environment and all its living creatures.
This type of intelligence goes beyond just enjoying nature—it’s about being in tune with it. You might find that you have a keen eye for details in your surroundings, whether it’s the patterns of the clouds, the behavior of animals, or the changing of the seasons. You likely feel a strong sense of responsibility to care for the environment and may be drawn to activities that involve conservation, gardening, or exploring the natural world.
What Can You Do with This Insight?
Embrace it! Your naturalistic skills make you a great fit for careers in environmental science, biology, conservation, or agriculture. But your talents can also be applied in other fields, such as education, where you can share your love of nature with others, or in design, where you can incorporate natural elements into your work. In your personal life, you might enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, or even sustainable living practices.
Your connection to nature can also benefit your well-being. Spending time outdoors, working with plants, or simply being mindful of the environment can help you feel grounded and fulfilled. Don’t hesitate to share your knowledge and passion for nature with others—you have the ability to inspire those around you to appreciate and protect the world we live in.
Pro Tip: To further develop your Naturalistic Intelligence, consider getting involved in environmental organizations, volunteering for conservation projects, or learning more about the natural world through courses or documentaries. Keep exploring and deepening your relationship with nature—your insights and actions can make a real difference.
Applying Different Types of Intelligence to Your Own Life
You can utilize Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences in a variety of ways, both in your personal and professional life. Here are a few examples:
- Understanding your strengths and weaknesses: By identifying your dominant intelligences, you can better understand your strengths and weaknesses. This can help you to make more informed decisions about your careers, hobbies, and personal goals.
- Tailoring your learning experiences: Teachers can use Gardner’s theory to design lessons and activities that appeal to a variety of intelligences. This can help you to better understand and retain information, and to develop skills in areas where you may not have previously excelled.
- Enhancing teamwork and collaboration: By recognizing and valuing different types of intelligence, teams can work more effectively together. For example, a team may benefit from having individuals with strong linguistic intelligence to write reports and individuals with strong interpersonal intelligence to manage conflicts and build relationships.
- Building self-awareness and empathy: Understanding the diversity of intelligences can help you to appreciate the strengths and perspectives of others. This can lead to greater empathy and understanding in personal and professional relationships.
- Pursuing new challenges: By identifying areas where you may be less strong, you can challenge yourself to develop new skills and broaden your horizons. This can lead to personal growth and a more fulfilling life.
Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences can be a powerful tool for understanding and valuing the diversity of human potential. By incorporating this theory into your life, you can enhance your self-awareness and the effectiveness of your personal and professional relationships.
Summary
The idea of multiple intelligences has become popular, but there is a lack of scientific support for the theory. However, it can be helpful to think about your strengths and preferences, particularly when it comes to finding a career that you will enjoy. It is also important to remember that you may have more than one type of intelligence that describes you best.
Sources:
Gardner H. Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences. New York: Basic Books; 1983
Gardner H. Intelligence Reframed: Multiple Intelligences for the 21st Century. New York: Basic Books; 1999.
Singh Y, Makharia A, Sharma A, Agrawal K, Varma G, Yadav T. A study on different forms of intelligence in Indian school-going children. Ind Psychiatry J 2017;26:71-6. doi:10.4103/ipj.ipj_61_16
Sternberg RJ. Intelligence. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2012;14(1):19–27. doi:10.31887/DCNS.2012.14.1/rsternberg
Visser BA, Ashton MC, Vernon PA. g and the measurement of multiple intelligences: a response to Gardner. Intelligence. 2006;34(5):507-510. doi:10.1016/j.intell.2006.04.006
