Linguistic Intelligence

Characteristics of linguistic intelligence include having a talent with language and the
ability to read and write well. Writers, speakers, trainers, orators, and professors are all
intelligent in this way. Examples of famous people with linguistic intelligence are
Shakespeare and Abraham Lincoln.

Mathematical / Logical Intelligence

Being proficient with numbers and being able to think logically, systematically, and
analytically are associated with mathematical/logical intelligence. Those who have
careers in engineering, accounting, or science possess this kind of intelligence.
Examples are Einstein and Stephen Hawking.

Musical Intelligence
Musical intelligence implies the ability to understand, appreciate, and create music.
Musicians, composers, and sound editors all have this strength, as do those who are able
to keep rhythm with music. Mozart, Bach, and Louis Armstrong are strong examples.

Visual / Spatial Intelligence

Individuals with visual/spatial intelligence are able to see things in their minds eye and
to visualize and plan internally. Artists, architects, interior designers, graphic designers,
city planners, and landscapers all have these abilities. Examples are Leonardo da Vinci
and Frank Lloyd Wright.

Physical / Kinesthetic Intelligence

Physical, bodily, or kinesthetic intelligence can be witnessed in those with athletic
ability as well as manual dexterity. These include athletes, dancers, mechanics,
surgeons, craftspeople, and yoga or aerobics instructors. Examples are Michael Jordan,
Michael Jackson, and Charlie Chaplin.

Interpersonal Intelligence
Interpersonal intelligence includes the ability to relate to others, get along with them,
communicate with them, and empathize with them. Psychologists, sociologists,
anthropologists, salespeople, parents, diplomats, teachers, and leaders all need this type
of strength. Examples of famous ones are Mother Theresa and John F. Kennedy.

Intrapersonal Intelligence
Intrapersonal intelligence is characterized by the ability and desire to introspect and
analyze ones own behavior. People who have this type of intelligence may have careers
as researchers, philosophers, or psychologists. Well-known examples are Socrates and
Freud.

Naturalistic Intelligence
Naturalistic intelligence refers to the ability to relate to the natural world, such as trees,
plants, soil, water, and animals. This intelligence is displayed by farmers, biologists, and
environmentalists, who can organize patterns in nature. Charles Darwin is a prime
example.

Multiple Intelligences & Academic Success

In terms of academic performance, students with linguistic and mathematical/linguistic
intelligence are the most prized by formal school systems. They usually perform well on
the kinds of tests and exams required to gain admission to college or university.
However, once they begin their careers they will need a variety of intelligences in order
to be successful overall. Being aware of your unique intelligence profile will help you
develop study techniques that build on your strengths. It will also help you make a
conscious effort to balance your learning effort by using the full range of intelligences
available to you.