Although IQ tests provide the best estimate of intelligence that we have, they have limitations that result from the fact that these tests are usually administered over a short period of time. Though they measure short term memory, pattern recognition, concept acquisition, short term problem solving etc., they cannot measure all the dimensions of intelligence such as imagination, long-term problem solving ability, intuition and creativity. Furthermore, they require some competence in test-taking skills to provide an accurate assessment of these cognitive skills.
People who are not adept at taking such tests and are unfamiliar with test items such as those in the Raven’s Progressive matrices will achieve IQ scores that are not representative of their pattern-recognition abilities. Also, people who take IQ tests in a language that is not their native language will be disadvantaged in the language skills part of the test.
It’s best to think of IQ tests as rough approximations of actual intelligence. School grades, quickness at learning new ideas, unique abilities in music, art or inventiveness are other factors that must be considered in an assessment of someone’s intelligence. The inability of IQ tests to measure some of these dimensions of intelligence can account for why a person of high intelligence may not register a high IQ.
To address the implications for success in life, we must make a distinction between intellectual potential and actualized intelligence. The former is the intellectual acuity you’ve acquired from a combination of genetics (SNPs) and early environmental stimulation. The latter is your ability to harness that potential to produce results. There are those of high IQ who lack the personality attributes to convert their potential into achievements. Conversely, there are also those of modest IQ who acquire “street smarts” and through relentless effort, achieve at a high level. Studies of the great entrepreneurs such as those profiled in Gene Landrum’s Entrepreneurial Genius, reveal that passion and tenacity are more important than intellectual potential in achieving success. As my high school math teacher told us again and again, “You have as many brains as you use.”
