How to Determine Your Myers-Briggs Type (With or Without a Test)

Download Article

Plus, what to do when you get conflicting results from multiple tests

Co-authored by Aly Rusciano Reviewed by Seth Hall

Last Updated: December 4, 2024 Fact Checked

Download Article

• Finding Your Type Through the 4 Dichotomies
|
• Taking a Test
|
• Interpreting Conflicting Results
|
• MBTI Result Meanings
|
• Using Your Results
|
• Video
|
• Expert Q&A

|Show more |Show less

Have you ever heard someone talking about their Myers-Briggs personality type and wondered what yours is? The Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) system analyzes four main components of your personality, then assigns you one of 16 possible personality types. The MBTI test is easy to take, and some versions give you your results right away. If you're ready to find out what your Myers Briggs personality type is, we've got you covered! Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about how the Myers Briggs Type Indicator test works, how to take it, and how to interpret your results.

How do you know your personality type?

Take a free test from sites like 16Personalities or Truity to learn your personality type, or take the official Myers Briggs (MBTI) exam. If you take multiple tests and get conflicting results, think through the 4 dichotomies (opposite letter pairs like E and I) of the results to see which resonates most with you.

Steps

Section 1 of 5:

Finding Your Type Through the 4 Dichotomies

Download Article

1. 1
   Determine whether you are introverted or extroverted. This preference is not so much about how social you are (which is what these terms are often associated with), as much as it deals with your tendency to act. When solving a problem, do you look inward first to solve the problem or outside?

   • Extroverts find social activity energizing. They tend to enjoy socializing in groups and enjoy the excitement of parties. While they can enjoy some alone time, too much time in a calm environment can bore them.
   • Introverts find quiet time energizing. While they can enjoy socializing (even in groups), spending time alone or one-on-one with someone special helps them recharge. They prefer quiet, peaceful environments.

   Did You Know? Shyness isn't always an indicator of introversion or extroversion. There are shy extroverts and bubbly introverts. When in doubt, think about what energizes you and what tends to wear you out (even if it's fun).
2. 2
   Think about how you gather information. Do you do it through sensing or through intuition? Sensors analyze the trees; Intuitives take in the forest. Sensors are more concerned with questions of "what," while Intuitives often wonder "why."

   • Sensors prefer concrete detail and facts. Their focus is on facts of the present. They're more likely to say, "I won't believe it 'til I see it." They tend to distrust hunches or guesses when not rooted in logic, observation, or facts. They also are better at details. They are also very conscious of their own needs.
   • Intuitives enjoy abstract ideas and theories. They tend to have more active imaginations and like to think about future possibilities. Their thoughts revolve around patterns, connections, and flashes of insights. They may tend to daydream and be forgetful when it comes to practical details (such as remembering to eat lunch when focused on a project).
   Advertisement
3. 3
   Look at how you make decisions. Once you gather your information, whether by sensing or feeling, how do you arrive at a decision? This tends to be sorted into "feeling" (prioritizing people's emotions and well-being) and "thinking" (prioritizing logic and practicality).

   • Feeling types try to look at problems from the perspective of everyone involved in an attempt to find the most balanced, harmonious solution (e.g. reach a consensus). Conflict can be very stressful to them.
   • Thinking types tend to look for the most logical and consistent solution, perhaps measuring it up against a set of rules or assumptions.

   Tip: Keep in mind that both types can be balanced and reasonable. Feeling types can understand logic, and Thinking types can factor other people's feelings into their logic. People of either type can experience strong emotions and make unwise decisions. Both types are valuable.
4. 4
   Think about how you relate to the outside world. Do you tend to communicate judgments or perceptions to others? This helps determine how you process and perceive the world around you.

   • Judging types tend to be decision-oriented and organized. They like to find resolutions and are happy to explain why. They tend to be planners who make to-do lists and enjoy getting things done ahead of deadlines.
   • Perceiving types are more hesitant to make decisions, preferring to leave things open and keep making observations. They're slow to make choices, especially when things seem to be important. They'd rather keep things "penciled in" in case they find a reason to make a change. They may mix work and play and are more likely to struggle with procrastination.
5. 5
   Use the four dichotomies (letters) to determine your personality acronym. Your personality acronym or Myers-Briggs type is a combination of four letters, such as INTJ or ENFP. There are 16 personality types in total, with each having a different combination of 4 letters:

   • The first letter is either I (for introverted) or E (for extroverted).
   • The second letter is either S (for sensing) or N (for intuitive).
   • The third letter is either T (for thinking) or F (for feeling).
   • The fourth letter is either J (for judging) or P (for perceiving).
Advertisement

Section 2 of 5:

Taking an MBTI Personality Test

Download Article

1. 1
   Try taking a free online test or two. Typing "MBTI free test" into a search engine will give you plenty of free tests you can try. Answer the questions in your chosen quiz honestly, always going with your gut reaction, and you’ll be given a personality type at the end.

   • Remember to answer on how you act, not how you want yourself (or someone else wants you) to feel or act.
   • Some of our favorite free online MBTI tests include 16Personalities and Truity.
2. 2
   Take the official MBTI test if you want better detail. If you're unsure about the quality of what you find online, you may be interested in taking the MBTI test from a professional, like a psychologist or career counselor. More than 10,000 companies, 2,500 colleges and universities, and 200 government agencies use the test to understand their employees and students.

   • Information about how, when, and where to take the official MBTI Test (including pricing) can be found at TheMyersBriggs.com.
Advertisement

Section 3 of 5:

Interpreting Conflicting Results

Download Article

1. If you get varied results amongst different tests, that’s okay! Taking more than one free online test is a great idea, but it can also leave you confused if you get a different MBTI type per test. Getting different results is a normal occurrence. If you're close to the borderline in one or more areas, you could get different results based on how the test is worded or what your mood is that day.

   • So, what do you do? If you get conflicting results, read up on each type and ask yourself, “Which feels more like me?” The type you resonate with most is likely your true result.
   • Can your MBTI type change? No, your MBTI type doesn’t necessarily change overtime. Your personality or your characteristics may change, but who you are at your core and your preferences don’t.

Section 4 of 5:

What Your MBTI Result Says About You

Download Article

1. 1
   ISTJ - The Logistician If you’re an ISTJ, you’re likely very organized and reserved. You pay attention to details others usually miss and stick to a plan whenever possible. You’re pretty matter-of-fact when it comes to making decisions, which makes you incredibly responsible and realistic.

   • Traits: Sincere, analytical, hard-working, practical
   • Famous ISTJs: Queen Elizabeth II, Denzel Washington, Henry Ford
2. 2
   ISFJ - The Defender If you’re an ISFJ, you’re incredibly loyal. You have a big heart and enjoy making new friends, but you can also be a bit reserved at times. You’re likely work-oriented and enjoy being in neutral, harmonious environments.

   • Traits: Considerate, gentle, pragmatic, responsible
   • Famous ISFJs: Mother Teresa, Selena Gomez, Vin Diesel
   • Fun fact: This is the most popular personality type.
3. 3
   INFJ - The Advocate If you’re an INFJ, you’re passionate and empathetic. You likely care deeply for others, even if you don’t know them well. It’s easy for you to make deep connections. Your sensitivity to the world around you is balanced with logical thought and a hard-working demeanor.

   • Traits: Creative, idealistic, perceptive, caring
   • Famous INFJs: Carl Jung, Adam Sandler, Plato
   • Fun fact: This is the rarest personality type.
4. 4
   INTJ - The Architect If you’re an INTJ, you’re likely highly independent. You see the world through an analytical and creative lens. Your confidence is through the roof—when you want something, you’re not afraid to chase after it! Some say you’re a perfectionist, but you just have high standards.

   • Traits: Innovative, independent, strategic, insightful
   • Famous INTJs: Stephen Hawking, C.S. Lewis, Hillary Clinton
5. 5
   ISTP - The Crafter If you’re an ISTP, you’re fearless and independent. What can you say? You’re a risk-taker! You love a good adventure and never back down from a challenge. You’re also likely a silent observer and a quick problem solver.

   • Traits: Logical, action-oriented, reserved, spontaneous
   • Famous ISTPs: Bruce Lee, Bear Grylls, Snoop Dogg
6. 6
   ISFP - The Artist If you’re an ISFP, you’re likely easygoing. We bet you’re a bit shy and prefer to do things on your own rather than in a group. You tend to be a bit quiet, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a lot to say. Making deep connections with others comes easily to you, and you hold those you care about close to your heart.

   • Traits: Sensitive, nurturing, realistic, flexible
   • Famous ISFPs: Michael Jackson, Marilyn Monroe, Lady Gaga
7. 7
   INFP - The Mediator If you’re an INFP, you’re creative and idealistic. You likely have high morals and want to do your best to make the world a better place. You care deeply about the well-being of others, making you a loving and loyal friend.

   • Traits: Perceptive, caring, sensitive, harmonious
   • Famous INFPs: John Lennon, Edgar Allen Poe, JRR Tolkien
8. 8
   INTP - The Thinker If you’re an INTP, you’re likely quiet and analytical. You observe the world through silence and are always watching your surroundings—you learn from observation. People may say your head is in the clouds, but you prefer it that way. You simply like to think.

   • Traits: Intellectual, logical, precise, flexible
   • Famous INTPs: Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, Meryl Streep
9. 9
   ESTP - The Entrepreneur If you’re an ESTP, you’re action-oriented and charming. What can you say? You’re a businessman or woman! You can solve problems quickly, and your outgoing personality helps you make friends easily.

   • Traits: Realistic, action-oriented, versatile, curious
   • Famous ESTPs: Theodore Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Madonna
10. 10
    ESFP - The Entertainer If you’re an ESFP, you love the limelight! You’re likely incredibly energetic and impulsive. You have an easygoing, optimistic energy to you that makes anyone instantly fall in love. What can we say? You’re a ray of sunshine!

    • Traits: Playful, enthusiastic, tactful, spontaneous
    • Famous ESFPs: Elvis Presley, Miley Cyrus, Ronald Reagan
11. 11
    ENFP - The Champion If you’re an ENFP, you’re likely creative and imaginative. You have great communication skills and love meeting new people. You’re a supportive friend who also craves love and support back. You also strive to be the best in everything that you do.

    • Traits: Enthusiastic, spontaneous, optimistic, playful
    • Famous ENFPs: Walt Disney, Robin Williams, Jennifer Anniston
12. 12
    ENTP - The Debater If you’re an ENTP, you’re innovative and outspoken. You’re likely ideal-oriented and tend to focus on the future. You’re also a great communicator who isn’t afraid of confrontation—you love hearing new opinions (and fighting for your own)!

    • Traits: Inventive, enthusiastic, strategic, inquisitive
    • Famous ENTPs: Amy Poehler, Thomas Edison, Tom Hanks
13. 13
    ESTJ - The Director If you’re an ESTJ, you’re likely responsible and practical. You like to take charge whenever possible. People may say you’re bossy, but you just like things to be done efficiently. Your self-confidence and eager attitude are something we envy!

    • Traits: Efficient, outgoing, analytical, dependable
    • Famous ESTJs: Andrew Jackson, George W. Bush, Michelle Obama
14. 14
    ESFJ - The Caregiver If you’re an ESFJ, you have a heart of gold. You’re warmhearted and extremely compassionate. You likely care for others before you care for yourself. In your mind, community comes first. You also always see the best in others, which helps you be a loyal and supportive friend.

    • Traits: Friendly, outgoing, organized, reliable
    • Famous ESFJs: Taylor Swift, Anne Hathaway, Hugh Jackman
15. 15
    ENFJ - The Protagonist If you’re an ENFJ, you’re highly in tune with your emotions. You likely have a caring and nurturing heart. You see the good in everyone and are always willing to lend a helping hand. You’re also responsive to criticism and do your best to excel at everything you do.

    • Traits: Enthusiastic, idealistic, organized, diplomatic
    • Famous ESTJs: Barack Obama, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Lawrence
16. 16
    ENTJ - The Commander If you’re an ENTJ, you’re a natural-born leader. You like to take charge whenever you can. You value organization and structure, and who better to get things done than you? Goal-setting is your game, and when you have something you’re working towards, nothing can stop you.

    • Traits: Strategic, logical, efficient, ambitious
    • Famous ENTJs: Alexander Hamilton, Steve Martin, Adele
Advertisement

Quiz

wikiHow Quiz: Am I Introverted or Extroverted?

Personality. You’ve got one; your friends have one—everyone has one! But what does it say about you and your social tendencies? In the early 1900s, Carl Jung coined the terms “introvert” and “extrovert” to describe personality traits and behaviors. Introverts tend to be more reserved, whereas extroverts thrive on social interaction. So, where do you fall? Are you an introvert, extrovert, or something in between? Answer these questions about what you would do in any given situation to find out.

1 of 12

It’s Friday night—woohoo! What are your weekend plans?

To chill at home, read, and/or watch a movie.

To go out with my friends. I can’t spend a weekend without them!

I’m not sure. Maybe I’ll catch up on homework or chill with the fam.

To party or study until I collapse, whatever fits the schedule.

Next

Section 5 of 5:

Using Your Results

Download Article

1. 1
   Use your strengths and weaknesses to help make decisions. When you know what type you are, you can begin to understand how you might fit into the world around you. If you're an INTJ and you're a salesperson, you might be rethinking your line of work! There are plenty of everyday uses for this test, including:

   • Learning: How do you take in and perceive facts and concepts?
   • Relationships: What traits do you look for in a partner? What traits are you most compatible with?
   • Personal growth: What positive areas can you capitalize on? Which areas of weakness can you grow from?
2. 2
   Recognize that all types are equally valuable. No single personality type is superior to another. The MBTI seeks to identify natural preferences, not abilities. When determining your type, look at it from the perspective of what you tend to do, not what you think you should do. Recognizing your own preferences is a useful tool in self-development.

   • MBTI is about priorities, not abilities. For example, Feeling types can be intelligent, Judging types aren't necessarily judgmental, and Thinking types can have strong emotional intelligence, too.
3. 3
   Ask others about their type. Talking about personality types can be interesting, and it can teach you new things about people you know. It's a relatively common test, and millions of people take it every year. Chatting about test results may help you relate to and learn more about each other.

   • You can learn from both people who are highly different from you and from people who are similar.
4. 4
   Avoid stereotyping. Don't assume that you know someone's type based on what they look like or how they act on one specific day. And even if you know their type, don't use it to ascribe negative traits or excuse bad behavior. You can use personality types to help you understand and interact well with someone, but don't use it to limit them.

   • Avoid using demographics like gender or disability to assume personality. For example, not all men are Thinking types, and not all autistic people are introverted intuitives.
   • Stay away from negative comments about someone's personality type. If you're upset with their behavior, describe it as bad behavior instead of as an inevitable personality failing. For example, Thinking types can and should learn to respect others' feelings, and Perceiving types can and should fulfill their responsibilities.
   • Don't assume that weaknesses commonly associated with your personality type are set in stone. You can learn and grow.
5. 5
   Remember that one test doesn't define your entire life. This only considers a few aspects of how you see the world and what you prefer. There are many aspects of your identity that aren't covered by the test. Your results aren't here to limit you, just to inform you a little.

   • There's lots of diversity in personality that goes far beyond 16 possible combinations. These letters only capture some aspects of who you are—certainly not everything.
   • Your personality results aren't set in stone. Sometimes, you may get different results based on what test you took or what your mood is. Also, some people find that their personalities change over time.
Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search

Add New Question

• Question

  How can I understand my personality?

  

  Samantha Fox, MS, LMFT
  Marriage & Family Therapist

  Samantha Fox is a Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in New York, New York. With over a decade of experience, Samantha specializes in relationship, sexuality, identity, and family conflicts. She also advises on life transitions for individuals, couples, and families. She holds both a Master’s degree and a Marriage and Family Therapy License. Samantha is trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), and Narrative Therapy.

  

  Samantha Fox, MS, LMFT

  Marriage & Family Therapist

  Expert Answer

  Learn to understand yourself through curiosity. If you stay curious, open, and interested about yourself, you will start to find patterns and answers.

  Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
  Thank you for your feedback.
  If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow

  Yes No

  Not Helpful 12 Helpful 50

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Advertisement

Video

Tips

• If you're having trouble determining your preference, try to imagine what you would've chosen when you were younger, such as before you were 12 years old. The idea is to find out what your natural preference was before you learned to behave or respond in alternative ways, and "nurture" picks up where "nature" left off.
  Thanks

  Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• In the MBTI community, some people use the function model rather than dichotomies to determine personality type. For instance, INTP = Ti-Ne-Si-Fe.
  Thanks

  Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Submit a Tip

All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published

Name

Please provide your name and last initial

Submit

Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

Advertisement

Warnings

• Don't use your type to justify irresponsible or unkind behavior. Being a perceiving type isn't an excuse for refusing to pull your weight in group projects, nor is being a thinking or introverted type an excuse to be rude to others. Do your best to be kind and respectful at all times.
  Thanks

  Helpful 42 Not Helpful 4

Advertisement

You Might Also Like

How to

Be a Healthy INTP

From Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male Personalities

What’s a Sigma Male? Personality, Pros, Cons & More

Therians Explained: Psychology, Behavior, & 5 Signs You Might Be One

Sigma Female Personality Traits Explained

What Does Your Rice Purity Score Really Mean?

What are the Most Common & Rarest Myers-Briggs Personality Types?

The 26 Different Types of Women in Psychology, Dating, & Literature

What is an Alpha Female (and Could You Be One Yourself)?

What Is Black Cat Girlfriend Energy on TikTok?

Make a Narcissist Come Crawling Back

13 Signs That You’re an Old Soul & What It Means

ENFP: Who’s Their Perfect Partner and What Are They Like in Love?

The Omega Male Personality Type: Definition, Traits, & More

Advertisement