IQ ranges: What they mean and how they’re measured
Oct 24, 2025•by Megan
IQ, or intelligence quotient, has long been a way to understand how an individual’s cognitive abilities compare to the general population. While it’s not a full picture of intelligence—leaving out creativity, emotional awareness, and motivation—it remains a widely used benchmark in education, research, and some real-world settings.
This blog article breaks down IQ ranges, how they’re measured, and what they mean for real-world cognition and performance.
What Is IQ?
IQ is a numerical score derived from standardized intelligence tests. It represents how someone’s cognitive performance compares to the average person of the same age. Think of it as a snapshot of mental skills like reasoning, problem-solving, and understanding information. It’s important to remember, though, that IQ reflects only certain types of intelligence. It doesn’t capture the full richness of human ability.
What does the IQ test measure?
IQ tests are designed to evaluate core cognitive abilities. Typically, they look at:
Logical reasoning: Recognize patterns and solve abstract problems.
Verbal comprehension: Understand, interpret, and use language effectively.
Mathematical ability: Apply numbers and reasoning to solve problems.
Spatial reasoning: Visualize and mentally manipulate shapes or objects.
What IQ tests don’t measure: creativity, motivation, emotional intelligence, or specific talents. These also play a major role in overall success and well-being.
Understanding the intelligence IQ scale
IQ scores follow a bell curve, with 100 set as the average. The standard deviation is 15 points, which means that about two-thirds of people score between 85 and 115. Fewer people fall at the very low or very high ends of the scale.
What is the average IQ score?
According to most modern intelligence tests, the average IQ score is 100, which reflects the midpoint of the population.
The IQ score range and level scale
Here’s a breakdown of IQ ranges and how they’re commonly described:
Below 70: Extremely Low (~2% of population)
70–84: Below Average (~13.6%)
85–115: Average (~68%)
116–129: Above Average (~13.6%)
130–144: Gifted (~2.1%)
145+: Highly Gifted / Genius (~0.13%)
Over time, psychologists have moved away from labels like “genius IQ.” Modern tools like the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) or the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales focus on descriptive categories rather than value-laden terms.
What is considered a high IQ?
A high IQ is generally considered to be above 115. This level suggests stronger-than-average reasoning, comprehension, or problem-solving skills. That said, a high IQ doesn’t guarantee success. Personality, motivation, emotional intelligence, and social skills are equally critical in how someone thrives in school, work, and life.
How are IQ tests used in the real world?
IQ testing still plays a role in several areas:
Education: Identifying gifted students or learning challenges.
Career and military placement: Matching individuals to tasks or roles.
Research: Understanding human cognition and psychological trends.
While less common in hiring today, elements of IQ-style testing still appear in aptitude assessments for certain jobs.
What factors influence a person’s IQ?
IQ is shaped by both genetic and environmental factors. Here are some of the strongest influences:
Genetics and family history
Studies suggest that 40–80% of the variation in IQ is heritable.
Family history often sets a baseline, but environment can raise or lower potential.
Twin and adoption research shows striking IQ similarities among biological relatives.
Early childhood environment
Chronic stress, neglect, or trauma can impair brain development.
Enriched environments (books, play, interaction) enhance learning.
Quality early education boosts long-term cognitive outcomes.
Nutrition
Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and B vitamins support brain growth.
Malnutrition in childhood is linked to lower scores and slower learning.
Foods like fish, nuts, and leafy greens may improve reasoning and memory.
Socioeconomic status
Lower socioeconomic status often limits access to quality education and healthcare.
Stress in unstable environments can reduce focus and learning capacity.
Opportunities for enrichment strongly affect IQ outcomes.
Sleep and brain health
Consistent, high-quality sleep is essential for focus, memory, and problem-solving.
Poor sleep in children is linked to delayed cognitive development.
Deep sleep stages help consolidate new learning.
Read more on the importance of sleep to cognitive health.
Strengthen the skills IQ tests measure with The Mind Company
IQ isn’t fixed—cognitive abilities can be trained and improved. The Mind Company’s apps make it practical and engaging:
Logical reasoning: Elevate offers strategy and logic games that sharpen critical thinking.
Verbal comprehension: Elevate also includes vocabulary training and reading comprehension practice.
Mathematical ability: Elevate’s daily math games improve numerical fluency.
Focus and mental clarity: Balance provides guided meditations proven to reduce stress and improve concentration.
Download Elevate and Balance for free to start building the skills that IQ tests measure—while supporting overall mental wellbeing.
IQ levels: FAQ
What is a good range of IQ?
A good IQ range is typically between 85 and 115, where about two-thirds of people fall. This is considered the “average” range and reflects normal cognitive functioning.
What was Albert Einstein’s IQ level?
Albert Einstein’s IQ level was never formally tested. Estimates often place it between 160 and 180, but these are speculative and not based on verified testing.
Is 120 an intelligent IQ?
Yes, an IQ of 120 is considered above average. It suggests stronger-than-typical reasoning and problem-solving skills compared to the general population.
What is Elon Musk’s IQ?
Elon Musk’s IQ has never been formally measured. While estimates online sometimes suggest a score above 150, there’s no verified number to confirm this.
Date: 10/24/2025
