What are the 16 Personality Types? By [Myer Briggs] + Free Tests
By busayo.longe
| Last updated:
Jul 23
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24 min read
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“What did the online personality type say to the doctor after running some tests? Is this going to be viral?” – Comedian unknown
Personality jokes aside if, at some point in your life, you have ever wondered what your personality type is, then you must have taken a Personality test. Now, there are tonnes of personality questionnaires and tests available online but the Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator is probably the most widely used personality test in the world.
It’s also one of the most regularly debunked even though about 2 million people take it annually. It is believed that these tests are based on some long-standing myths about what personality really is and how we can measure it.
A personality test can give you a great deal of insight into the core components that make up who you are. Personality is a thing that individuals informally assess and describe every day. During interactions, people frequently refer to different characteristics of an individual’s personality.
Your job depends on it, your marriage compatibility gets a cue from it. But are personality tests still valid? Most personality assessment instruments are in fact introspective. Personality tests use questionnaires as a data collection method to know more about your personality type, your intelligence, your interpersonal skills, and more!
A personality test is any of a series of standardized tests designed to accurately and consistently measure personality. It is simply a way to assess an individual’s personality construct. Most personality tests are coined into introspective self-report questionnaire measures from life records such as ratings.
Personality tests are primarily used for identifying perceived strengths and weaknesses in the character combinations of an individual to give them a direction such that only their strengths are amplified and the weaknesses reduced to a bare minimum or eliminated.
A study from Carlos III University of Madrid shows behavior types of 90 percent of the human population can be grouped into; optimistic, pessimistic, trusting, and envious. Individuals are either; optimistic, pessimistic, trusting, and/or envious.
Of the four types, envious, is the most common, with 30 percent compared to 20 percent for each of the other groups. Unlike Myers-Briggs, this temperament theory has its roots in the ancient four humors theory.
A more common and widely accepted explanation of personality types is the four temperament theory. A proto-psychological (the study of human psychology) theory which suggests four fundamental personality types: sanguine, choleric, melancholic, and phlegmatic.
These were associated with the domination of various biological functions. These temperaments come to the most obvious manifestation in childhood, between 6 and 14 years of age, after which they become subordinate (in most cases).
Sanguines tend to be more extroverted and enjoy being part of a crowd. Sanguine personality is typically described as highly talkative, enthusiastic, active, and social. Individuals with this personality have a hard time doing nothing and engage in more risk-seeking behavior.
Choleric individuals tend to be more extroverted. They are described as independent, decisive, and goal-oriented, and ambitious. These combined with their dominant, result-oriented outlook make them natural leaders. In ancient history, they were thought to be violent, vengeful, and quick-tempered.
Melancholic individuals tend to be analytical and detail-oriented, and they are deep thinkers and feelers. They are introverted and try to avoid being singled out in a crowd. A melancholic personality leads to self-reliant individuals who are thoughtful, reserved, and often anxious because they strive for perfection.
Phlegmatic individuals tend to be relaxed, peaceful, quiet, and easy-going. They are empathetic towards others, yet they try to hide their emotions. Phlegmatic individuals also are good at generalizing ideas or problems to the world and making compromises.
Katharine Cook Briggs, mother of Myer Briggs began research into personality in 1917. She developed a typology wherein she proposed four temperaments: meditative, spontaneous, executive, and social. Isabel Briggs Myers followed her mother’s typological research and with time, took it over entirely.
Briggs and Myers created the MBTI during World War II believing that consciousness of personality preferences would help women who were joining the industrial workforce for the first time to identify the kind of war-time jobs that would best suit them.
Socionics, in psychology and sociology, is a theory of information processing and personality type, distinguished by its information model of the psyche. The idea of Socionics is that information is intuitively divisible into eight categories, called information aspects, which a person’s psyche processes using eight psychological functions.
The purpose of Socionics is to provide a means of predicting the character of relations and the degree of business compatibility, information sharing, and psychological compatibility of people before their joining in one collective group.
Socionics is extraversion (E), sensing (S), thinking (T), judgment (J), introversion (I), intuition (N), feeling (F), and perception (P).
Socionics divides people into 16 different types, called sociotypes which are; ESTJ, ENTJ, ESFJ, ENFJ, ISTJ, ISFJ, INTJ, INFJ, ESTP, ESFP, ENTP, ENFP, ISTP, ISFP, INTP & INFP. A formal conversion is carried out following the Myers–Briggs Type Indicator.
Read Also: Ultimate Guide to Socionics and Personality Types
ISTJs are serious, proper, and formal in appearance which can be intimidating. They are cultured and have an affection towards tradition. In contrast, they are quiet and usually calm. They are called inspectors because of their keen attention to detail. ISTJ are rule followers who always take the logical approach towards their goals and projects.
Their dominant cognitive function is introverted sensing which helps them take in the details about their environment while their auxiliary cognitive function is extraverted thinking which makes them efficient and logical thinkers.
In their relationships, they are very loyal to their friends and family members. Usually, they have a small circle with who they prefer spending their time with. The ISTJ thrives in jobs that require structure, logic, and stability.
INFJs are visionaries who have a different view of the world. They love introspection and refuse to take things at a surface level. They could be termed weird by others because of how they see life. The INFJ are idealists who love understanding complex issues. They are reserved leaders who are usually creatives due to how easily they get inspired.
Also known as the diplomats, the INFJ prefers to cooperate with members of their team as opposed to conflict.
The dominant cognitive function of an INFJ is introverted intuition which helps them focus on internal insights and generally influences their decision-making. Their tertiary cognitive function is an extraverted feeling which makes them highly sensitive to the feeling of others or what others refer to as being empathetic.
The INFJ thrives in jobs that require a deal of compassion, psychology, and/or collaboration.
INTJs are introverts who are comfortable being by themselves. They would avoid socializing as it drains their energy. They excel at developing plans and strategies. As analytical problem solvers, this personality type is strategic and innovative
Their dominant cognitive function is Introverted intuition which they use to read between the lines and unravel patterns. The auxiliary function is extraverted thinking which makes them deliberate about solutions and highly organized.
Also known as the architects, the INTJ thrives in jobs that require logical systems and innovative solutions. They usually prefer to work alone. In relationships, they are loyal and are great at encouraging their partners.
ENFJs are individuals who are people-centered. They rely mostly on their intuition and feelings and tend to live through their imagination. They focus on abstracts and what could happen in the future.
They are highly empathetic not just to their close friends and family but to people in general.
The ENFJ generally loves feedback and they can be referred to as people pleasers.
Their dominant cognitive function is an extraverted feeling that helps them be in tune with other people’s feelings. Their auxiliary functions are introverted intuition that makes them focus on the future as opposed to the present moment.
They thrive in jobs where they can encourage others and push them to grow. This also includes humanitarian-focused jobs. In relationships, they are supportive and always willing to understand their partners
ISTPs are a mysterious, rational, and highly logical bunch. They are spontaneous and unpredictable most times albeit oblivious to those around them because they are experts at hiding their true nature.
Their dominant cognitive function is introverted thinking which makes them focus on the logical aspect of a situation. The ISTP’s auxiliary cognitive function is extraverted sensing which helps them focus on abstract things.
They thrive in jobs that require technical expertise and physical activity. In relationships, they are calm lovers who prefer being handy around the house
ESFJs are stereotypically known to be extroverts. They are cheerleaders and raise the spirits of those around them earning them popularity. Because of their nature, they are easily liked and people easily warm up to them.
Their dominant cognitive function is an extroverted feeling which makes them work and make decisions based on their gut feeling. The ESFJ’s auxiliary cognitive function is introverted sensing which helps them focus on the present instead of the future or other abstract details.
They thrive in jobs that require processes and interpersonal skills. In relationships, they are the traditional partners who believe in structure and stability.
INFPs are usually reserved and introverted. They usually spend time all by themselves in quiet places. They love analyzing signs and symbols and using them to draw inferences in explaining what is happening around them.
Their dominant cognitive function is an introverted feeling which helps them with processing emotions internally. The INFP auxiliary cognitive function is the extraverted intuition that helps them focus on the big picture through imagination.
They thrive in jobs that require visions and align with their goals/ interests. In relationships take time to select their friends and they are quite big on comprise.
ESFPs are mostly perceived to be entertainers. They enjoy being in the spotlight. They enjoy exploring and learning to share what they’ve learned with others through their strong interpersonal skills.
Their dominant cognitive function is extraverted sensing which helps them stick to facts instead of abstract ideas. The ESFP’s auxiliary cognitive function is an introverted feeling which helps them make decisions.
They thrive in work environments where they can be spontaneous, move around often, and involves the use of artistic values. In relationships, the ESFP will prioritize their family and loved ones over anything although they can also strongly dislike a structured life.
ENFPs are highly individualistic and refuse to live their lives inside a box. They strive to create their own methods of doing things. They operate with their feelings and are highly perceptive and thoughtful
Their dominant cognitive function is extraverted intuition which allows them to focus on abstract thoughts and patterns. The auxiliary cognitive function is introverted feelings which make them focus on their feelings rather than logic.
In relationships, the ENFP is always expressive and shares affection openly. They also thrive in jobs that demand creativity and imaginative solutions.
Explore the 4 types of questionnaires with free question examples
ESTPs are governed by the need to interact with others. They are interested in abstracts and theories. They are spontaneous and risk-taking. They aren’t afraid of making mistakes as they make them up as they go along.
Their dominant cognitive function is extraverted sensing which makes them action-oriented. The auxiliary cognitive function of an ESTP is introverted thinking which makes them highly disciplined and very observant.
They thrive in career paths that require mechanical skills, flexibility, and one that is quite unpredictable. In relationships, they can be quite adventurous and prefer activities with their loved ones.
ESTJs are organized and governed by the zeal to do what is right and socially acceptable. They epitomize the ideal individual who is on the track toward doing what is “good” and “right”. They are happy to be of help.
Their dominant cognitive function is extraverted thinking which makes them quite practical when compared to other personality types. The auxiliary cognitive functions are introverted sensing which makes them very keen on details and stability.
The ESTJs like to work in management positions where they can oversee operations and put in structures. In relationships, they love routines and their loved ones know that they can always be depended on for anything.
ENTJs focus on dealing with all things rationally and logically. They are naturally born leaders who command respect. They also do enjoy being in charge. They see obstacles as challenges in which they can prove themselves.
Their dominant cognitive function is extraverted thinking which makes them deliberate about orders and judgments. The auxiliary function is introverted intuition which makes them trust their instincts during decision making.
The ENTJ thrives in jobs that are complex and require clear strategies for goals. In relationships, they can set high expectations for their loved ones and can be sometimes domineering.
INTPs are typically known for their brilliant ideas and propositions. They see a pattern in everything and can easily pick out something that’s out of place. They are concerned with finding an environment where their creative genius can be harnessed.
Their dominant cognitive function is introverted thinking which makes them highly understanding and deep thinkers. The auxiliary functions are extraverted intuition which helps with their imagination and inspiration.
The INTP thrives in work environments that aren’t focused on traditions. They prefer flexible and independent work styles. In relationships, they are highly unconventional and autonomous.
ISFJs are highly generous and ever-ready to give back to society. They are warm and kind-hearted individuals. They possess an awareness and consideration towards bringing out the best in others.
The dominant cognitive function is introverted sensing which makes them very detail-oriented. Their auxiliary functions are extraverted feelings which makes them nurturing and very considerate.
They thrive in jobs that require structure and are positioned behind the scenes. In relationships, the ISFJ will take care of their loved ones unconditionally.
ENTPs are extroverts who do not enjoy small talk. These personalities are very rare to come across. They have a logical and rational approach to discussions and/or arguments. They are knowledgeable but need constant stimulation.
Their dominant cognitive function is extroverted intuition which makes them always open to exploring new ideas. The auxiliary function is introverted thinking which makes them quite logical.
They thrive in jobs where creativity meets challenges. In relationships, the ENTP is spontaneous and can be quite exciting.
ISFPs on the outside seem like introverts but deep down they’re warm and very friendly. They are spontaneous and fun to be with. They are always out to explore new things and discover new experiences.
Their dominant cognitive function is an introverted feeling which makes them caring. The auxiliary functions are extraverted sensing which makes them appreciate works of art.
ISPs prefer to work independently away from the spotlight. In relationships, they are accommodating and very easygoing
Personality tests are a great way to discover your inner person. In trying to uncover layers of yourself that you haven’t recognized or that have gone under the radar, it’s ideal to take a test.
Here are 11 free platforms you can take the Myers-Brigg personality test on:
123Test offers a DISC personality test in under five minutes. The test offers critical information for understanding why you might get along better with one employee and have more conflict with another. It identifies how you perceive other people’s actions.
The test is based on Carl Gustav Jung’s study of psychological traits and covers five broad personality aspects: mind, energy, nature, tactics, and identity. 16 Personalities has been taken over 126 million times and is available in 30 languages.
This test is also based on Jung’s and Myers-Briggs’ personality theories. It encompasses four broad categories; extraversion vs. introversion, sensing & intuition, thinking & feeling, and judging & perceiving. The test provides a broad overview of how you’re likely seen by others.
Test Color tells you about your emotional intelligence, creativity and imagination, social skills, and work style, including organization and management styles.
HumanMetrics shows you information on famous personalities who share your personality type, along with your four-letter personality type. This test helps you get information about which career paths are most suitable for your personality type.
Crystal provides a free DISC assessment, which tells you how your personality fits into your work environment. Crystal also offers an accurate personality test, enabling you to build an extensive personality profile on one website.
Interpersonal Skills assess your listening skills, verbal communication skills, ability to work in teams, and emotional intelligence. The test then identifies areas of weakness and provides tactical advice on how to improve those skills.
This test shows you 20 pictures and asks you to recognize the facial expression on each person’s face. It is an informative way to learn how well you read other people’s emotions and critical skills for assessing and mitigating conflict.
This test is designed to clinically assess you. It uses the same emotional measurements mental health professionals use to diagnose social impairment. It’s a 60-item questionnaire and is suitable to measure “temperamental empathy” in adults.
This test works as a career assessment tool that tests you on your personality, background, interests, and goals to determine an ideal career path. After you take the test, it provides you multiple matches to explore different careers and workplaces before choosing an ideal match.
This test asks you 10 quick questions before delivering your results. It’s not medical or scientific by any means, but does offer other articles depending on your score.
When it comes to individuals and their personalities, there are a lot of important determinants that come into play. In trying to understand your true nature, a key factor is knowing one’s distinct personality type. No personality type is superior to the other in the grand scheme of things as they both have seemingly equal pros and cons.
Originally, there are two main personality types which are Types A and B. This helps classify the four temperaments and 16 personalities into similar broad categories. To know which type you are, you can take this personality Type A/B questionnaire—a modified version of the Jenkins Activity Survey.
Type A individuals are multitasking, ambitious, proactive, organized, and status-conscious individuals. In addition, they are sympathetic, sensitive, truthful, and always eager to help others. Type A people are friendly and caring goal-driven and motivated individuals. They are also easily frustrated and have a low tolerance for incompetence with people or projects.
Type B individuals are laid-back with the ability to relax and enjoy small accomplishments. In addition, they tend to be calm, patient individuals and are generally uncompetitive as they often take the “win some, lose some” approach. They are rarely stressed and hardly ever frustrated with people or projects.
Here’s how you really know though. If you read through painstakingly the above line by line, you’re likely an A. If you skimmed through the text, you’re probably a B.
Studies show that there are also Type C and Type D personalities away from Type A and B personalities. The difference is, while Types C and D require more analysis and appear to be more emotionally driven characteristics, Types A and B are driven by certain, easily recognizable, and consistent characteristics.
Type C individuals have a hard time sharing their emotions, feelings, and/or needs with others. They are considered to be emotionally repressed. They find it extremely difficult when it comes to making decisions of low and/or large magnitude. They are naturally people pleasers.
Type D individuals are usually a combination of stressed, angry, worried, hostile, and tense. They run a strict unchanged pattern of lifestyle and are averse to making changes. For the Type D individual, security is a top priority. Whether it’s physical security and/or job security.
The rarest personality type is INFJ (introverted, intuitive, feeling, and judging) also known as the Advocate. They make up only about 1.5% of the population.
They typically prefer solitude and tend to be imaginative thinkers, values-driven decision-makers, and meticulous planners.
The most successful personality type in the 16 Personalities model is the ENTJ (Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging). ENTJs are natural-born leaders who are confident, decisive, and strategic.
They are also good at delegating tasks and motivating others. These qualities make them well-suited for high-powered positions and top earners in business, government, and other fields.
There is no single “smartest” personality type. Intelligence is a multi-faceted concept. Education, environment, opportunities, and experience all play a role in determining intelligence.
However, specific personality types INTJ and INTP generally thought to be smarter than others. INTJs are known for their logical thinking, seeing patterns, and creativity. While INTPs are also known for their intelligence, they are more focused on theoretical concepts than practical applications.
ENTJ, ENTP, and ISTJ. ENTJs are good at strategic thinking and problem-solving, while ENTPs are creative and innovative thinkers. Also, ISTJs are detail-oriented and analytical.
Jesus’s personality is described in the Bible in many different ways. He is often portrayed as being introverted and intuitive, as he often withdraws to pray and meditate. He was also known for his compassion and empathy, which suggests that he was a feeling type.
However, he was also capable of making tough decisions, such as when he chose to die on the cross. This suggests that he may have been a thinking type as well.
He was also not afraid of confrontation, this was displayed when he confronted well-respected teachers.
The second-rarest personality type is ENTJ (the Commander), they make up only 1.8% of the population, according to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).
Yes, your personality type can change, but it is not easy. Personality traits are relatively stable, but they can change over time, especially in response to major life events or deliberate interventions.
ESFJ (the caregiver) are very warm, compassionate, and helpful people. They are often willing to go the extra mile for others.
Other personality types like ISFJ, INFJ, ENFJ, ENFP, and ISFP are also loyal, kind, and gentle souls, and personalities to have as friends, leaders, and family.
According to a study by Sak in 2004, INFP, INTP, ENFP, ENTP, and INTJ then to be creative, intelligent, and non-conformist.
According to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), the most common personality type is ISFJ (Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, and Judging). They are practical, kind, loyal, and responsible, which is the personality of most adults.
The rarest MBTI personality type for women is INTJ. They are typically independent, intelligent, and logical. They are also often described as being reserved and private.
The rarest MBTI personality type for a man is INFJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Judging). INFJs are known for being gentle, idealistic, creative, caring, and compassionate.
ISFP, INTJ, INFP, ISTP, and INTP are all introverted and perceiving types, so they tend to focus more on their thoughts, understanding people’s actions, and intent than contributing to conversations.
INTJs tend to be quiet and reserved, preferring to focus on their thoughts and feelings rather than engaging in social interactions. They’re also very self-reliant and don’t need so many social interactions to feel content and fulfilled.
INFP, ISFP, INTJ, ISTP, ENFP, ENTP, and ESFP tend to give up on tasks more easily. However, they have different reasons for giving up.
For example, Introverted Feeling types, such as INFPs and ISFPs, may be more likely to give up on a task if they feel like it is not aligned with their values or if they are not getting the emotional support they need.
While INTJs are often intelligent and logical, but typically perfectionists. They tend to give up on a task if they feel like they are not going to be able to do it perfectly.
Most extroverted and Judging types such as ENTJ, ESTJ, ENFJ, and ESFJ, typically make great leaders because of their boldness and decision-making skills. INFJ and ISTP also make effective leaders because of their empathy, and problem-solving skills.
Most extroverted and feeling types (ENFJ, ESFJ, ENTJ, ENFP, and ENTP) are seen as charismatic because of their confidence, eloquence, and ability to connect with people fast. INFJs also tend to be seen as charismatic when they connect with people.
Typically, introverted, thinking or sensing types (ISTP, INTJ, ISTJ, ISFJ, INFJ, INTJ) are calmer than other personalities.
Most feeling and judging types (ENFJ, INFJ, ISFJ, ESF, AND ENFP) tend to trust people more easily than other personalities.
Thinking and judging types such as ENTJ, ESTP, ISTJ, and INTJ are usually more determined than other personalities.
Most introverted and perceiving types (INFP, ISTP, INTP, ISFP, INTJ) are typically seen as loners because they are private people, and don’t enjoy too much social interaction at a go.
INFJ, ENFJ, ISFP, ENFP, and ISFJ tend to love deeply and care about people.
ENTJ, ESTP, ESTJ, ENTP, and ISTP are often bold, independent, and resilient people which makes them more confident than other personalities.
Most feeling and judging types (ENFJ, INFJ, ISFJ, ESFJ, and ENFP) are great at empathizing, caring, and being loyal to others.
Generally, most feeling types (ENFJ, INFJ, ENFP, ISFP, ESFP and ISFJ) are more understanding and easily express their emotions than other personalities.
Thinking and judging types (INTJ, ENTJ, ESTJ, ISTJ) are usually the top earners in most fields.
Felling and Perceiving types tend to fall in love faster than other personalities, this includes, ENFP, ISFP, INFP, ESTP, ENTP, ESFP, and INFJ.
INTJs, ESTPs, ESTJs, ENTPs, and ISTPs tend to be highly motivated and ambitious. They are constantly searching for new opportunities to pursue and are goal-oriented.
Thinking and judging types (ENTJ, INTJ, ISTJ, ESTJ) tend to be very hardworking and resilient.
Thinking and perceiving types (ENTP, ENFP, ESTP, ISTP, ISFP, and INFP) tend to be brave, resilient, and adventurous.
Naturally, most feeling types (INFJ, ISFJ, ESTJ, ESFJ, ISFP tend to be respectful of people’s feelings, boundaries, and opinions
INFJ, ISFP, INTP, ISFJ, ENFP, INFP, and INTJ are mostly diplomatic with expressing their feelings because of logic and empathy.
Most introverted thinking types such as INTJ, ISTJ, INFP, ISTP, and INTP are hard to read because they tend to critically observe people’s opinions and keep their thoughts to themselves.
Typically extroverted and perceiving types (ENFP, ENTP, ESTP, ESFJ, and ESFP) are often seen as flirty because of their expressive, charming, and playful character.
ESFP, INTJ, ENTJ, ISFJ, INFP, and ESTP tend to have a hard time finding love.
The entire purpose of personality tests is that the tests can be used for self-reflection and help individuals attempt to understand themselves towards improving their interaction with others.
For instance, if a job placement requires a certain character trait or personality type, simply taking a personality test helps best decide who best fits that role and removes the risk of people going into the wrong jobs.
Above all, personality tests show the strengths and weaknesses of an individual. With this key information, you can now focus on amplifying your strengths and suppressing your weaknesses.
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