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Knowledge Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about IQ testing, our methodology, and your results

General Questions About IQ Testing

What is an IQ test and what does it measure?

An Intelligence Quotient (IQ) test is a standardized assessment designed to measure human intelligence and cognitive abilities. Our test evaluates multiple aspects of intelligence including:

  • Logical reasoning: Your ability to identify patterns and solve problems systematically
  • Spatial intelligence: How well you can visualize and manipulate objects mentally
  • Pattern recognition: Your capacity to identify relationships and sequences
  • Abstract thinking: The ability to understand complex concepts and ideas
  • Processing speed: How quickly you can analyze and respond to information

The IQ score is calculated relative to the general population, with 100 being the average score. Our test uses scientifically validated methods to provide an accurate assessment of your cognitive abilities.

How accurate is the CerebralTec IQ test?

Our IQ test maintains a 98% accuracy rate when compared to professional psychological assessments. This high level of accuracy is achieved through:

  • Questions developed by cognitive psychologists and psychometric experts
  • Continuous calibration using data from over 2.5 million test-takers
  • Advanced statistical normalization techniques
  • Regular validation against established IQ testing standards

While our online test is highly accurate, for official diagnostic purposes or clinical assessments, we recommend consulting with a licensed psychologist.

Is IQ fixed or can it change over time?

IQ scores can fluctuate throughout life, though they tend to remain relatively stable in adulthood. Factors that can influence IQ scores include:

  • Age: IQ typically stabilizes in late adolescence
  • Education: Continued learning can improve cognitive abilities
  • Mental stimulation: Regular cognitive challenges can maintain or improve performance
  • Health factors: Physical and mental health significantly impact cognitive function
  • Practice effects: Familiarity with test formats can slightly improve scores

Research shows that while core intelligence is relatively stable, specific cognitive skills can be improved through targeted training and mental exercises.

What is considered a good IQ score?

IQ scores follow a normal distribution with specific classifications:

130 and above Very Superior (2.2% of population)
120-129 Superior (6.7% of population)
110-119 High Average (16.1% of population)
90-109 Average (50% of population)
80-89 Low Average (16.1% of population)

Remember that IQ is just one measure of intelligence and doesn't capture all aspects of human capability, creativity, or potential for success.

About the Test Process

How long does the IQ test take?

The CerebralTec IQ test typically takes between 5-10 minutes to complete. The test consists of 30 carefully selected questions designed to assess various cognitive abilities efficiently.

Key timing information:

  • No individual time limits per question
  • Average completion time: 7 minutes
  • You can work at your own pace
  • The test must be completed in one session

While speed is a factor in intelligence assessment, we've designed the test to balance thoroughness with efficiency, ensuring accurate results without causing test fatigue.

What types of questions are included in the test?

Our IQ test includes various question types to comprehensively assess different aspects of intelligence:

  • Pattern completion: Identify the missing element in visual sequences
  • Matrix reasoning: Solve complex visual puzzles with multiple variables
  • Spatial rotation: Mentally manipulate 2D and 3D objects
  • Number sequences: Identify mathematical patterns and relationships
  • Logical deduction: Draw conclusions from given information
  • Abstract reasoning: Understand relationships between concepts

All questions are culture-fair and language-neutral, using primarily visual elements to ensure the test is accessible to people from diverse backgrounds.

Can I retake the test if I'm not satisfied with my score?

Yes, you can retake the test, but we recommend waiting at least 30 days between attempts. Here's why:

  • Practice effect: Immediate retakes may artificially inflate scores due to familiarity
  • Accuracy: Your first attempt typically provides the most accurate baseline
  • Cognitive recovery: Mental fatigue can affect subsequent attempts

If you choose to retake the test, you'll receive a new set of questions from our extensive question bank. Each retake requires a separate payment, and we'll provide both your new score and your score history for comparison.

Should I prepare before taking the IQ test?

For the most accurate results, we recommend taking the test without specific preparation. However, ensure you're in optimal condition:

? Do:

  • Get a good night's sleep before the test
  • Choose a quiet, distraction-free environment
  • Take the test when you're alert and focused
  • Have a stable internet connection
  • Use a computer or tablet (not recommended on phones)

? Don't:

  • Practice IQ test questions beforehand
  • Take the test when tired or stressed
  • Use external help or resources during the test
  • Rush through questions

Scoring & Results

How is my IQ score calculated?

Your IQ score is calculated using advanced psychometric methods:

  1. Raw score calculation: We tally your correct answers across all question categories
  2. Difficulty weighting: Questions are weighted based on their statistical difficulty level
  3. Age normalization: Scores are adjusted based on age-appropriate norms
  4. Statistical standardization: Your performance is compared to our database of 2.5+ million test-takers
  5. Bell curve positioning: Your final score represents your position on the normal distribution

The final IQ score has a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15, following the Wechsler scale, which is the most widely accepted IQ scoring system worldwide.

What information is included in my results report?

Your comprehensive results report includes:

  • Overall IQ Score: Your numerical IQ score and classification
  • Percentile Ranking: How you compare to the general population
  • Cognitive Profile: Breakdown of performance across different intelligence areas
  • Strengths & Weaknesses: Detailed analysis of your cognitive abilities
  • Global Comparison: How your score compares internationally
  • Age-Adjusted Analysis: Performance relative to your age group
  • Official Certificate: Downloadable PDF certificate with your results
  • Improvement Recommendations: Personalized tips for cognitive enhancement

What does my percentile ranking mean?

Your percentile ranking indicates the percentage of people who scored lower than you. For example:

  • 95th percentile: You scored higher than 95% of test-takers
  • 75th percentile: You scored higher than 75% of test-takers
  • 50th percentile: You scored at the median (IQ of 100)

Common IQ Scores and Their Percentiles:

  • IQ 145 = 99.9th percentile
  • IQ 130 = 98th percentile
  • IQ 115 = 84th percentile
  • IQ 100 = 50th percentile
  • IQ 85 = 16th percentile

Scientific Foundation

What scientific principles underlie your IQ test?

Our test is grounded in established psychological theories and methodologies:

  • Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) Theory: We assess multiple broad cognitive abilities
  • g-factor (General Intelligence): Our test measures the underlying general cognitive ability
  • Fluid vs. Crystallized Intelligence: Questions target both types of intelligence
  • Raven's Progressive Matrices: Our visual patterns follow similar principles
  • Item Response Theory (IRT): Advanced statistical modeling for question calibration

Our test design is regularly reviewed by psychometric experts and updated based on the latest cognitive science research.

How does CerebralTec ensure test validity and reliability?

We maintain high psychometric standards through:

Validity Measures:

  • Content validity: Questions reviewed by cognitive psychologists
  • Construct validity: Confirmed correlation with established IQ tests
  • Criterion validity: Validated against academic and professional outcomes

Reliability Measures:

  • Test-retest reliability: Consistent scores over time (r = 0.91)
  • Internal consistency: High Cronbach's alpha (? = 0.94)
  • Split-half reliability: Strong correlation between test halves

Are online IQ tests as valid as in-person assessments?

Research shows that well-designed online IQ tests can be highly valid when properly constructed:

Advantages of Online Testing:

  • Standardized administration eliminates examiner bias
  • Large normative samples improve accuracy
  • Consistent testing conditions
  • Advanced anti-cheating measures

Considerations:

  • Online tests may not capture all aspects measured in comprehensive clinical assessments
  • Professional evaluations include behavioral observations
  • Clinical tests can identify specific learning disabilities

Our online test provides a reliable measure of general cognitive ability, though clinical assessments remain necessary for diagnostic purposes.

Payment & Security

Why is there a fee for the full results?

The $1.95 fee helps us maintain and improve our service:

  • Professional development: Continuous refinement by psychometric experts
  • Statistical validation: Ongoing calibration and normalization
  • Technology infrastructure: Secure servers and data protection
  • Detailed analysis: Comprehensive 15-page personalized report
  • Customer support: Professional assistance when needed

We keep our fee minimal to ensure accessibility while maintaining the highest quality standards. The test itself is free to take - you only pay to access your detailed results.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept various secure payment methods:

  • Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
  • Debit cards with online payment capability
  • PayPal
  • Apple Pay (on supported devices)
  • Google Pay

All payments are processed through secure, PCI-compliant payment gateways. We never store your payment information on our servers.

How is my personal data protected?

We take data privacy and security seriously:

Security Measures:

  • 256-bit SSL encryption for all data transmission
  • GDPR and CCPA compliant data handling
  • Anonymous test-taking option available
  • No sharing of personal data with third parties
  • Secure cloud storage with regular backups
  • Right to data deletion upon request

What We Collect:

  • Basic demographic information (age, gender) for scoring
  • Test responses for analysis
  • Email for result delivery (optional)

Read our full Privacy Policy for detailed information about data handling.

What is your refund policy?

We offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee:

  • Full refund if you're not satisfied with your results
  • Refund for technical issues preventing test completion
  • No questions asked within the first 7 days

To request a refund, contact our support team with your order number. Refunds are typically processed within 3-5 business days.

Technical Support

What are the technical requirements for taking the test?

Minimum requirements for optimal test experience:

Device Requirements:

  • Desktop, laptop, or tablet (smartphone not recommended)
  • Screen resolution: 1024x768 or higher
  • Stable internet connection (minimum 1 Mbps)

Browser Compatibility:

  • Chrome 90+ (recommended)
  • Firefox 88+
  • Safari 14+
  • Edge 90+

Additional Requirements:

  • JavaScript must be enabled
  • Cookies enabled for session management
  • Pop-up blocker may need to be disabled

What if I experience technical issues during the test?

If you encounter technical problems:

  1. Don't refresh the page - This may reset your progress
  2. Check your internet connection - Ensure stable connectivity
  3. Try a different browser - Chrome typically works best
  4. Clear cache and cookies - This resolves most issues
  5. Contact support immediately - We can restore your session

Our system automatically saves your progress every 30 seconds. If you're disconnected, you can usually resume where you left off by logging back in within 24 hours.

How can I contact customer support?

We offer multiple support channels:

  • Email: support@cerebraltec.com (24-48 hour response)
  • Live Chat: Available Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 6 PM EST
  • Help Center: Comprehensive guides and troubleshooting
  • Contact Form: Available on our website

For fastest assistance, include your order number and describe the issue in detail. Our support team is trained to handle technical issues, billing questions, and result interpretations.

Still Have Questions?

Our support team is here to help you get the answers you need