The main contents of the article include:
- How to calculate IQ
- Scale and classification
- Can IQ fluctuate over time?
- Some methods to increase IQ
What is IQ?
The concept of IQ was first introduced by the British scientist Francis Galton in the late 19th century. Subsequently, American professor Lewis Terman - a faculty member at Stanford University - utilized this theory to develop an IQ test for everyone, which was widely used in the United States in the early 20th century.
Experts suggest that individuals with high IQs tend to analyze and process information at a deeper level and faster pace than the average person. IQ scores ranging from 85-115 constitute the largest proportion of the global population.
How to Calculate IQ
Initially, IQ was calculated as the ratio of mental age to chronological age multiplied by 100, and later developed into commonly used methods based on standard deviations of 15, 16, and 24. Standardized IQ tests are now considered the best way to determine an individual's IQ score. The goal of these tests is to assess abilities in mathematics, language, visual processing, memory, and information processing speed.
Scale and Classification
IQ scores below 55 - account for 0.1%: profoundly disabled, IQ scores from 55 - 70 - account for 2%: intellectually disabled, IQ scores from 70-85 - account for 14%: borderline intellectual functioning, IQ scores from 85-115 - account for 68%: average intelligence, IQ scores from 115-130 - account for 14%: above-average intelligence, IQ scores from 130-145 - account for 2%: highly intelligent, IQ scores above 145 - account for 0.1%: genius or near genius.
*These are IQ scores based on the standard deviation of 15 (IQ SD 15)
Can IQ Fluctuate Over Time?
The average IQ of a person remains relatively stable over time. However, there are exceptions - some individuals experience significant life events, such as contracting diseases that severely affect brain function (such as Japanese encephalitis, cerebral palsy...), leading to a sharp decrease in IQ.
Some Methods to Increase IQ
While it's not possible to turn an average person into a genius, the following methods have been proven to support IQ improvement and reduce the risk of IQ decline due to illness and aging: Engage in puzzle-solving games, word guessing, and intellectual games; Regular exercise and adequate rest; Learn to play musical instruments; Supplement with herbs, vitamin D, and fish oil (omega 3) for the body; Learn a foreign language; Get enough sleep and avoid staying up late for extended periods.
Play puzzle-solving games, word guessing, and intellectual games; Exercise regularly and rest properly; Learn to play musical instruments; Supplement with herbs, vitamin D, and fish oil (omega 3) for the body; Learn a foreign language; Get enough sleep and avoid staying up late for extended periods.
In addition to IQ, there are many other indices that you may not be aware of. Refer to the article on various indices such as CQ, SQ, PQ, AQ, SQ, MQ, StQ here.