Analysing your IQ
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How cognitive abilities develop, peak, and change across the entire human lifespan.
Average IQ by age follows a well-documented developmental pattern: cognitive abilities develop rapidly in childhood, fluid intelligence peaks in the mid-20s, crystallized intelligence grows through middle age, and processing speed gradually declines after 65. IQ scores are age-normalized, meaning 100 is always the average for any age group.
5-12 years · Avg IQ: 100 (age-normalized)
IQ testing in children measures cognitive development relative to age-matched peers. The average IQ for children is 100 by definition, as IQ scores ar...
13-17 years · Avg IQ: 100 (age-normalized)
Teenage IQ scores reflect a period of significant cognitive development. Fluid intelligence peaks during late adolescence, while crystallized intellig...
18-65 years · Avg IQ: 100 (age-normalized)
Adult IQ scores reflect the interplay between fluid intelligence (which peaks in the mid-20s and gradually declines) and crystallized intelligence (wh...
65+ years · Avg IQ: 95-100 (age-adjusted)
After age 65, cognitive changes become more pronounced but vary enormously between individuals. Processing speed and fluid intelligence show the most ...
| Age Group | Age Range | Average IQ | Fluid Intelligence | Crystallized Intelligence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Children | 5-12 years | 100 (age-normalized) | Developing rapidly | Building foundations |
| Teenagers | 13-17 years | 100 (age-normalized) | Approaching peak | Accelerating growth |
| Adults | 18-65 years | 100 (age-normalized) | Peaks mid-20s, gradual decline | Grows through 60s |
| Seniors | 65+ years | 95-100 (age-adjusted) | Significant decline | Remains stable into 70s-80s |
Curious about your own IQ? Take our scientifically-validated IQ test to measure fluid intelligence, pattern recognition, and cognitive processing speed.
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Important note: IQ scores are statistical measures of cognitive ability relative to age-matched peers. They are influenced by many factors including education, health, motivation, and testing conditions. A single IQ test score should not be used as the sole basis for important life decisions. This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional psychological assessment.
