Notes about this video: 1. If you’d like to try some example Mensa questions, try the free Online Workout: bit.ly/Mensa-Online-Workout Let me know if your brain functions easily, or not, with these kinds of questions. 2. I made two massive mistakes during my test! The first was in test 1 - when we started I couldn’t make sense of the answer sheet. It was very simple and Lee the instructor explained it well, we even had examples questions we filled in together but my brain turned to mush when we started and I didn’t know what I was doing. I think I lost 1-2 minutes of the first section just staring at the page 😂 And then during the second test when going back and checking my answers for the _second_ section (one that I actually managed to complete in time), I referred back to my answers in the _first_ section and started changing lots of answers, but changing them in the _wrong_ section! It was about 1 minute from the end when I realised what I was doing, got into a pickle and probably made loads of mistakes. But these mistakes are a reflection of my mental capabilities, if I can’t work out how to use the answer sheet properly then that is reflected in my score.
Just wanted to say: I haven’t even watched the video but I respect your way of first researching and explaining things so much that, when I saw the topic I thought “now here is someone I want to learn about IQ from even tho I’ve avoided it for years”. That’s how good you are at what you do! ❤
That’s actually a pretty good score. As George carlin used to say, “imagine how stupid your average person is, and then realize that half of the population is even stupider than that“.
I really appreciate the explanation of what Mensa is about and what IQ is about. I've always struggled with maths, patterns, formulas and reasoning but I've done well in other aspects of learning such as writing, information gathering and sorting, interpreting and application of information, and research (particularly qualitative). I graduated with a First with Honours in a very research-heavy programme but I can't do maths or patterns to save my life! I wouldn't do very well in these types of tests but I guess it's just something I didn't win in the genetic lottery!
Hey Noora, thank you so much for your lovely comment. I am so pleased you liked the extra info. It seems we are opposite as I am no very good at writing, language etc. It takes a lot of effort for me.
I sat my Mensa test when I was 36yo. I got a 1% pass. I'm nearly 62yo now, and recently went on a test invigilator training day with Mensa. I had sight of the test papers, and can tell you I wasn't even on the pace. It is true that you go stupid as you age. You rowed the Atlantic and walked 100ml around the IoM. I couldn't comprehend how you did so. Both easily more worthwhile than Mensa membership, trust me!
I wonder how many people within Mensa, would admit to not belonging within the 1%. I think there are plenty of people there who belong within the 2%, but keeå quiet about that so people can believe they’re at the 1%. My grandpa was a professor in mathematics and held guest lectures at lots different universites such as Yale, Harward, Pxford and Cambridge and the big ones in Scandinavia. He’s without a doubt the most intelligent person I’ve ever met, but also the one with so much humility and kindness. He never made a difference between people based off of their intelligence (or anything that made them a minority). He viewed his intelligence more as an act of service to others, and not at all something to boast about to make others feel less than. That was a lovely approach regarding this subject! Lol, I’m probably pretty average myslef, but it’s ok because I study what I enjoy and I’m glad my intelligence is enough for that. / Scandinavian
"Being good a mathematics" is no indication of intelligence. Being intelligent is the ability to understand new things, not simply being able to memorize someone-else's system.
Fascinating day out Big T. It made my noggin ache just watching. I don't think I'd do very well at this kind of test, but like you say, we all think in different ways. My step father is extremely intelligent, but has no common sense at all. I guess we all have different skills and things to offer and this kind of thinking is just one aspect that adds to the rich tapestry of what makes us human. Thanks for sharing, as always.
As a Mensa member from the last century, I think your assessment of IQ tests not measuring all the forms of intelligence is very intelligent. I remember smiling during my IQ tests and the test supervisors wondering why I was was smiling so much. It's just that the tests were so limited. They were only measuring vocabulary, mathematics and pattern recognition. Intelligence is the ability to solve problems and accomplish goals in helpful ways, including the ability to improve in doing that through learning. There are plenty of people that are highly intelligent in their field, regardless of "IQ", whether that field is mechanics or dance instruction or social support or anything. Accomplishing broadly helpful goals requires intelligence and drive. "IQ" is just a particular test that doesn't really measure actual life intelligence. Your intelligence and your applications of it inspire me. Thank you.
Well, when I took the Mensa I.Q.-test: I was faced with 45 different patterns that I had never seen- being tasked to describe the pattern in some way. I think that is a perfectly fine way of measuring Intelligence-Quota, wouldn't you say? Do people forget the fact that you are not allowed to study for the Mensa test???? Why would Mensa's I.Q.-test not be accurate? I bet you edgy reddit-people's idea of an I.Q.-test would be naming as many shoe-brands as you can??? 🤔🤔🤔
Hmm. I don't know but i'll rely what I've seen from Jordan Peterson. The IQ test is the most reliable test there is in this field of study. It tests overall cognitive capabilities well and is cross-cultural. My thoughts: "intelligent in their own field" as you put it, likely means competence which is different. Also seems that at the moment, there is no concensus on 'emotional' IQ or any other IQ (musical IQ etc), if they exist or not, or can they be differentiated from IQ. It's also not a grading system of human value, pretty important to keep in mind. Also, 'life intelligence' is experience, innit?
I did a test when I was in school at 17. I was really interested in Sudoku and puzzles. Taking maths A level at the time. Scored somewhere up in the 140’s. I tried it again a couple of years ago in my 40’s and was something like 114. I have a feeling that it’s not some kind of set thing. That neuroplasticity is probably greatly effective and changeable in regard to this. Strangely because of some firing and storage taking place on both sides of the brain. Apparently if you juggle ( I know you know how) for ten minutes before an IQ test you can gain 5%?!? Because left right brain synthesis is stronger?!? Weird
I mean when you were doing puzzles and Sudoku and a lot of maths you were probably conditioned into being pretty great at problem solving and recognising patterns
Did one a couple of months ago and am a Mensa member since. It actually helped me a lot with figuring out myself if that makes sense. Getting the test results felt a bit like finally getting a diagnosis. Would totally recommend it. Relatively inexpensive and if nothing else makes for few fun and challenging hours. Greetings from Germany!🙂
oh wow! This is awesome to hear Simon, thanks for sharing your experience, I really appreciate it. After speaking with Lee, the test invigilator, I can really understand your comment now.
I took 2 standardized IQ tests for jobs in my life. The first one, in my mid 20s, i scored 129. The 2nd one, early 40s, in 2017 i was a 142. Glad to know i got smarter over time 😆The job where i had the 2nd IQ test also told me i have 100% perfect hearing (you had to listen and click every time you hear the tiniest sound and i didn't miss one). The way everyone's brain works is different, though, and having a high number isn't always an advantage. I alreadsy knew i was "highly intelligent" because i could read, write and speak 2 languages at age 4 and school was pretty much boring. I learned by myself by reading and watching TV and would sometimes correct the teachers (or they would be explaining things i already knew in a simpler way for other students to learn it first, and i was jumping ahead). I was always the best in my level/school, won national tests etc but i also lacked several social skills. I'm a high functioning autist so i'm good proficient in very specific areas but can appear as a total clutz or even an idiot in social situations. I'd say for most jobs in society, it's better to be close to the median range. I've learned to make the best of my abilities and understand where my shortcomings are in the social sphere and sort of make up for it, but yeah, higher number doesn't necessarily = better 👍
Super interesting topic, Laura! I figured you'd do well! I would wager IQ varies from day to day, depending on how one is feeling. I know my brain is definitely working some days and not so much on others :) I took an IQ test while in college and scored fairly highly, but I always felt that it was a fluke (and I'm actually not very bright at all). I vowed to never take another and prove myself right!
Bet noone that watches you is surprised. But i9f you scored 70, you'd still be our favorite. It's what you do with what you were given that's important
Yes, agreed, our I Q is about mental agility. I have decided not to tell people my IQ because I once did and that person thinks that I am something special which is definitely not how I wish to be thought of. I enjoyed this video of your personal experience, Laura!
I did the Mensa test two weeks ago and got a score of 152 on the Cattell 111 B test and 104 on the Culture Fair Scale. This means that I can join if I want to, although I don't know whether I will. My reason for doing the test was that I used to do boxing in my younger days. I have seen plenty of former boxers suffering from dementia as they get older (I am 62) and I wanted to keep my mind active to try and reduce my chances of developing dementia.
Thank you for making this video. I love your attitude about IQ, MENSA, & the stigmas surrounding them. Intelligence can be a touchy subject for many, and I've always disliked the idea of assigning a simple "score" to it. So many factors play into how a person does on tests like these: comfort, environment, experience, blood sugar. 😂 My personal experience with IQ testing was not ideal. I was in 2nd grade, had just endured a traumatic move to a new state, and was painfully shy to the point of not even talking in (public) school. I realize now that these factors likely affected my performance, but as a sensitive 7-year-old, not getting a "perfect" score on this test was devastating to me. So sad, I know! I've since recovered, thankfully. 😉 From what I've seen of your videos, you strike me as very intelligent, competent, methodical, and adventurous. Your consistent behavior proves your intelligence much more accurately than a single test score in my opinion. Regardless, great job on the test! Thanks for sharing this fun experience!
Thanks for sharing your experience of IQ testing Danielle. Wow, 7 years old and doing a test like that is intense in the best of conditions. And thank you for your kind words 🙏🏼
@@LauraTryUK I think the test changes with age group so It was probably not as intense for you but still, a real IQ test like that would be so hard I imagine. I’ve only ever done online ones that don’t let you see your score unless you pay (which I refuse to lmao)
IQ is one of those things that get batted around quite a lot as to its validity as a measure of "intelligence". It's the same, to me, as measuring what "fit" means. Is it Usain Bolt, the sprinter? Is it Eliud Kipchoge the current Olympic Gold Medallist in the Marathon? The weightlifters? The swimmers? The Decathletes? The people that compete in Strongman competitions? The rock-climbers? IQ measures a few components of intelligence in a specific way. As you pointed out, your test guide has high IQ, but can't work out Ikea furniture. Some people are very verbal, some visual, some aural - some have amazing abilities in 3D visualisation, some people can look at a bit of machinery and deduce how it all goes together at a glance. Where does some of this high IQ start to fall into the realms of being on the autism spectrum, or those previously the savants? And, of course - some people are very, very smart but just do not do well under test conditions. Your nervousness at the start, after a trip to get to an unfamiliar location while probably distracted by having to use a chunk of your mental energy in working out how to make a good video out of it probably did not help your own score.
I took the Mensa test 20 years ago and was accepted as a member. I was told that they wouldn't tell me my exact score, but that it was at least 145. Very interesting. At 68 I can still do five numbers in my head, like 23 times 419, for example. It takes me a couple of minutes for five numbers, but I can do three in seconds.
There are 3 different SDs. SD15 (common in Europe), SD16 (common in USA), SD24 (most uncommon). So these two tests have SD16 and SD24 as standard deviation. So to find out the IQ with SD15 you have to use these formulas: 1.) IQ(SD15)=((IQ(SD16)-100)/16)x15+100 for the SD16-IQ test. The result for her is IQ(SD15):115.9375. 2.) IQ(SD15)=((IQ(SD24)-100)/24)x15+100 for the SD24-IQ test. The result for her in this test is IQ(SD15): 119.375.
(just tickling the algorithm as much as anything but...) I sometimes find it funny how we talk about 'our brain' when in fact our brain is 'us': it is where we are. We are our brain, we aren't separate from it, it is us. So when we feel our 'brain hurting' (as opposed to a headache) we are feeling the physical manifestation of ourselves aching. Does that mean that we can exhaust or over exert who we are? When we suffer grief, depression, loss or trauma it is a different ache, we (our brain) detects and experiences it, but it is not often 'felt' in our in our brain, it is more in our body. Which is weird, I think. Anyway as always a wonderful video. cheers
I've always wanted to take an IQ test, but I'm also kind of afraid of the results. Basically because I've always been the "smart" one, but if I discovered that my IQ sucks and I'm not actually smart, It'd be kind of an ego hit. Oh well, I guess I'll probably just never know.
I feel the same way, but seeing Laura go through this with such a clear and balanced perspective makes me realise that it really REALLY doesn't matter. I have some neurological problems which have changed my pattern of thinking. It feels like a real loss of self but Laura's right, the speed of thought is similar to the speed of your legs or your flexibility. It might change and that's okay.
Well done Laura! I remember being made to do a WAIS IQ in a 1-1 setting, I had my 3MO daughter with me who was fussing most of the time 🙈 I either had to continue or I wouldn't have the opportunity to do it again, so I did it. I was told I scored one below genius whatever that means 🤷♀️🤣 I bet if I did it again, I wouldn't score anywhere near that as I feel like my brains functioning has turned to mush lol It would be interesting to look into that! Thank you for the inspiration 🤩
@@LauraTryUK I just went onto the online workout and then puzzles. First puzzle has already baffled me, gives you the answer and it makes no sense to me 🤣 One of those questions "what word comes after those on the left but before those on the right" The answer is Tree. I'm here like what is a shoe tree??? 🤔
Sorry @@LauraTryUK! I didn't see your full comment. It's The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale. Google will probably explain the specifics better than me 🙈
New subscriber here! I love your videos! You are so positive and optimistic, and I really like what you said at the end about IQ, and how Mensa is a group of people that share a similar skill set - like a group of musicians. I'm inspired to take on some of the challenges in your videos! Perhaps my next challenge is getting the splits? Or doing UA-cam full-time? 😍
@@LauraTryUK a channel that I follow, Helena Woods, uses a certain program. If I can find it, I'll let you know. It is in small increments. See you, soon. Smarty! 📚🖋🤓🕵
I met Lee today, who led your test! He was talking about someone who'd come along to Northampton and made a video about Mensa - I was like, yep she's the reason I came along today!
Interesting video. Well done on your test score. & *Thinking* means *working with limited information* So . .. It's much *better to be productive and creative* Stay happy:)
I've become very interested in the idea that there are multiple intelligences. Emotional intelligence is well known but I think a good carpenter has a kind of intelligence. Also ballet dancers have an awareness and control of their bodies which is a kind of body intelligence. I'm a software developer so traditional intelligence is useful but if you ask me to wrap a present it will look like it was done by a two-year old using just their toes.
Being honest, you can learn to do these tests. Some time ago I bought mensa test books and after doing multiple of these, I started to get most answers correctly, although I am not that bright. So, i dont think it is such an important factor.
I’m sure you know that Mensa accepts other tests than the ones that they administer. I qualified for Mensa (and Intertel - top 1%) on the Miller Analogies Test (MAT).
Well, this test clearly measures SD 24, which would mean that, if and only if your FSIQ on average is exactly 124, then this would put you exactly one standard deviation above the average. In other words, it would be fitting to describe you as “clever”, but nothing more. At least it puts you in the top 16 % of the most intelligent people, which means out of a hundred people, you will be smarter, statistically speaking, than 84 of them. The other people will be at least as intelligent as you are in the worst case and more intelligent than you are, normally. It’s actually quite a good score.
I think the stigma of having a high IQ comes from the people who love saying how high their IQ is, like it makes them better than others or right about everything. People also assume if you have a high IQ then your emotional/social IQ is probably on the low side. You got a great score though, that's much higher than average!
I'd be curious to see how much the score would change if you took the test every day for a couple weeks (if anyone could weather that) 😄. Also I bet score would improve as you'd simply get better at the test itself
That’s why the actual test is closely guarded. These tests are designed for people going in “cold”. Your score also improve, however, if you practice with similar tests, just by getting used to the logic used in the riddles. I just cannot see the sense in doing so, since the only prize here is learning something about yourself and cheating wouldn’t give you any advatages.
@@jsean7456 "Cheating" is probably not the best word for it. IQ is not an absolute number, it is better expressed as one's level of intelligence measured against the average. If you train for weeks before your IQ test and possibly even find out the key to solving some of the questions from the actual test, your score against the score of all the other people who aren't familiar with the test will not be a realistic one. What I meant by cheating is that you might get a better score, but your result will not reflect you actual IQ. I don't see the point. A few weeks of practice won't really raise your intelligence, it's just an advantage that most of the others don't have. Of course the IQ of a person is not set, it naturally changes with their age, for example. It is also possible to improve your IQ, but it takes a lot more time than a couple of weeks. :)
@@jsean7456 I don't think it disproves that IQ score is set. I think sometimes people aren't able to master their max IQ and so some people could improve while others won't. I don't agree with that user. It wouldn't be cheating whatsoever. For example, I struggle to focus with new things. If I were to take the test once and then wait a year to take it again, I would most definitely do better and that's without even practicing. I believe I would improve with practice as well. That's always how I've learned anyway. I feel dumb at first and then I'm better at that thing than most everyone else.
I know how intense those 1.5 hours goes.. but dont you like it ? I love that feelings ( especialy after test gets over ), its like coming outta hard workout lol. but my experience is, score is not fixed, it changes the more you do. For first time it will be lil lower, but subsequently one gets lots of improvement on score.
@@LauraTryUK I was doing once in 2 months duration ( did 5 times ) with lots of in home practice's in between.. With time, brain capacity / speed picks up ( is the reason I believe ), but there still be some challenging tricky ones in between. I would say you did great for a first time but I don't think you are kinda score chasing person.. you just wanna do different things :)
Mensa won't reveal an individuals "proctored" test scores. All you get is a PASS/FAIL notification. It's considered crass and taboo to discuss scores by the organization and its members. How did you get them to share yours? -TheUnMensan Funfact: I took my test hungover. My self sabotage was strong in my 20's.
I did it just this past weekend, just for a laugh. I managed to answer all the questions at least. In the longer of the two papers, I found a couple of sections I had lots of time leftover, so ended up leaving the room to make a cup of tea during one section. Was a bit of fun. Not had the results yet, but I feel positive about it.
@@teresalehtonen8499 Top 1% in one, Top 2% in the other. Although part of me thinks they just say that to try and get as many people as possible to join. They are a business, after all.
You scores are high enough that you are capable creating works of genius. Where I went to graduate school, there was a huge study on the connection between high creative achievement and IQ. On those two tests, you take the highest score as the most indicative of general ability, if I remember. In this case, you're in the top 9%. You're a smart cookie. Not surprising.
You're very kind Todd, I found the first test (Cattell B) most enjoyable and _slightly_ easier for sure. However, could definitely brush up on many other life skills rather than always focusing on my creativity.
I used to have a really high IQ, but after my 50es it starts to decrease, i don't need to test it to feel, that it would be way, way lower. I forget quicker and understand slower now. (I'm 61). I'm sure, the IQ decreased with age. (Sorry for my bad english)
I have no clue how I got into mensa. Its been a week and just got the mail inviting me to join mensa. I first saw this video and thought ohh i wish I could get a score like that. I got 132 in 1st and 145 in 2nd …. Lmaooo how !! 🤣🤣 I thought id get around 120 or some
The reason for the 'social status' of having higher IQ's, ...this aptitude at problem solving, etc. Is that humans are not rational actors. Purely emotional reposes to stimuli are the norm. Supposedly, those with a higher IQ are able to distance themselves from their innate initial response. How we deal with anxiety and stress, our flight or fight response, etc. To take a moment, to pause and assess... is vital in life. The lower the IQ, the less control you have over your stress and the more it controls you. Laziness is the malady which affects most humans. Having a high IQ enables people to take advantage of this. Many people can keep busy, the high IQ scorer will just achieve more in less time. Around seventy percent of people 'the silent majority' are subservient to authority, and habitually keep their emotions under control. It's one of things that British people were infamous for. Their... stiff upper lip. Stoicism which is a form of capitulation, knowing you're not in control... even when you believe you are. To accept a situation and your inability to avert the outcome. Owning a high IQ is knowing you can gain the best possible scenario out of 'most' situations. It is hot wired into them. To see the malaise and laziness of others and clamber over them. Those that are well socially adjusted will 'do well' in society generally, those socially maladjusted will succeed in theoretical fields. Having a high IQ score... will always show humans at their best ...and unfortunately also at their worst.
how is this not cultural? let me put it this way: can a culture that does not write, for example, produce any kind of intelligence test that would be acceptable by mensa as being comparable to their own?
No reason to be disappointed with that result. If you google bell curve and iq, you'll see that you actually are among the 16% smartest people in the population, and that ain't bad is it?
That was exactly my reasoning. What I find even more interesting is that most people are unaware of SD like 15, 16 or 24. If you ask them about their IQ, the answer most likely will be a concrete score and not a percentile or percentage. Just an interesting observation
@@sonicmaths8285 : Actually ... in early versions of IQ-tests they asked immigrants to the US about American culture, how many states they had, names of earlier presidents and so on. Since the immigrants had limited knowledge about this, most of them was scored as mentally retarded. Not especially scientific you could rightly say. Luckily ... todays IQ-tests are more universal and concentrated on pattern recognition and general logic skills and therefore could be applied on a global population without such concerns.
crumbs! that's mega! I bet you still have it pc - from what I understand, it's a natural ability. Are you tempted to try another test to see where you are at?
A better indicator of IQ is knowing that these test are worthless indicators of intelligence. What good is having a high IQ score when you can't tie your own shoestrings?
Notes about this video:
1. If you’d like to try some example Mensa questions, try the free Online Workout: bit.ly/Mensa-Online-Workout
Let me know if your brain functions easily, or not, with these kinds of questions.
2. I made two massive mistakes during my test!
The first was in test 1 - when we started I couldn’t make sense of the answer sheet. It was very simple and Lee the instructor explained it well, we even had examples questions we filled in together but my brain turned to mush when we started and I didn’t know what I was doing. I think I lost 1-2 minutes of the first section just staring at the page 😂
And then during the second test when going back and checking my answers for the _second_ section (one that I actually managed to complete in time), I referred back to my answers in the _first_ section and started changing lots of answers, but changing them in the _wrong_ section! It was about 1 minute from the end when I realised what I was doing, got into a pickle and probably made loads of mistakes.
But these mistakes are a reflection of my mental capabilities, if I can’t work out how to use the answer sheet properly then that is reflected in my score.
Just wanted to say: I haven’t even watched the video but I respect your way of first researching and explaining things so much that, when I saw the topic I thought “now here is someone I want to learn about IQ from even tho I’ve avoided it for years”. That’s how good you are at what you do! ❤
You are so lovely Amber, that was such a nice thing to say, it really means a lot to me, thank you!
That’s actually a pretty good score. As George carlin used to say, “imagine how stupid your average person is, and then realize that half of the population is even stupider than that“.
such a funny comment 🤣
All different people for all different things though, right?
I took the MENSA test about 15 years ago. It was a fun experience. Just found your channel, loving the content.
I really appreciate the explanation of what Mensa is about and what IQ is about. I've always struggled with maths, patterns, formulas and reasoning but I've done well in other aspects of learning such as writing, information gathering and sorting, interpreting and application of information, and research (particularly qualitative). I graduated with a First with Honours in a very research-heavy programme but I can't do maths or patterns to save my life! I wouldn't do very well in these types of tests but I guess it's just something I didn't win in the genetic lottery!
Hey Noora, thank you so much for your lovely comment.
I am so pleased you liked the extra info.
It seems we are opposite as I am no very good at writing, language etc. It takes a lot of effort for me.
11:02 you can't average out like that. the two scores use different standard deviations, like apples and oranges.
I sat my Mensa test when I was 36yo.
I got a 1% pass.
I'm nearly 62yo now, and recently went on a test invigilator training day with Mensa.
I had sight of the test papers, and can tell you I wasn't even on the pace.
It is true that you go stupid as you age.
You rowed the Atlantic and walked 100ml around the IoM.
I couldn't comprehend how you did so.
Both easily more worthwhile than Mensa membership, trust me!
I wonder how many people within Mensa, would admit to not belonging within the 1%. I think there are plenty of people there who belong within the 2%, but keeå quiet about that so people can believe they’re at the 1%.
My grandpa was a professor in mathematics and held guest lectures at lots different universites such as Yale, Harward, Pxford and Cambridge and the big ones in Scandinavia. He’s without a doubt the most intelligent person I’ve ever met, but also the one with so much humility and kindness. He never made a difference between people based off of their intelligence (or anything that made them a minority). He viewed his intelligence more as an act of service to others, and not at all something to boast about to make others feel less than. That was a lovely approach regarding this subject! Lol, I’m probably pretty average myslef, but it’s ok because I study what I enjoy and I’m glad my intelligence is enough for that. / Scandinavian
"Being good a mathematics" is no indication of intelligence.
Being intelligent is the ability to understand new things, not simply being able to memorize someone-else's system.
Fascinating day out Big T. It made my noggin ache just watching.
I don't think I'd do very well at this kind of test, but like you say, we all think in different ways.
My step father is extremely intelligent, but has no common sense at all. I guess we all have different skills and things to offer and this kind of thinking is just one aspect that adds to the rich tapestry of what makes us human.
Thanks for sharing, as always.
great comment, thank you! 🙏🏼
That's a great score - well done!
As a Mensa member from the last century, I think your assessment of IQ tests not measuring all the forms of intelligence is very intelligent.
I remember smiling during my IQ tests and the test supervisors wondering why I was was smiling so much. It's just that the tests were so limited. They were only measuring vocabulary, mathematics and pattern recognition. Intelligence is the ability to solve problems and accomplish goals in helpful ways, including the ability to improve in doing that through learning. There are plenty of people that are highly intelligent in their field, regardless of "IQ", whether that field is mechanics or dance instruction or social support or anything. Accomplishing broadly helpful goals requires intelligence and drive. "IQ" is just a particular test that doesn't really measure actual life intelligence.
Your intelligence and your applications of it inspire me. Thank you.
This comment Ken 💖
So true
Well, when I took the Mensa I.Q.-test: I was faced with 45 different patterns that I had never seen- being tasked to describe the pattern in some way.
I think that is a perfectly fine way of measuring Intelligence-Quota, wouldn't you say?
Do people forget the fact that you are not allowed to study for the Mensa test????
Why would Mensa's I.Q.-test not be accurate?
I bet you edgy reddit-people's idea of an I.Q.-test would be naming as many shoe-brands as you can??? 🤔🤔🤔
Hmm. I don't know but i'll rely what I've seen from Jordan Peterson. The IQ test is the most reliable test there is in this field of study. It tests overall cognitive capabilities well and is cross-cultural.
My thoughts: "intelligent in their own field" as you put it, likely means competence which is different. Also seems that at the moment, there is no concensus on 'emotional' IQ or any other IQ (musical IQ etc), if they exist or not, or can they be differentiated from IQ. It's also not a grading system of human value, pretty important to keep in mind. Also, 'life intelligence' is experience, innit?
I did a test when I was in school at 17. I was really interested in Sudoku and puzzles. Taking maths A level at the time. Scored somewhere up in the 140’s. I tried it again a couple of years ago in my 40’s and was something like 114. I have a feeling that it’s not some kind of set thing. That neuroplasticity is probably greatly effective and changeable in regard to this.
Strangely because of some firing and storage taking place on both sides of the brain. Apparently if you juggle ( I know you know how) for ten minutes before an IQ test you can gain 5%?!? Because left right brain synthesis is stronger?!? Weird
Well, you know what I will be doing before my next brain test Miles…. 🤹🏼♀️
Love the comment, thanks!
I mean when you were doing puzzles and Sudoku and a lot of maths you were probably conditioned into being pretty great at problem solving and recognising patterns
"Apparently if you juggle ( I know you know how)" could you elaborate? I would appreciate it
How to juggle?
My moms husband loves soduko. He is a welder. Fairly conclusive evidence soduko lowers intelligence, imho.
Did one a couple of months ago and am a Mensa member since. It actually helped me a lot with figuring out myself if that makes sense. Getting the test results felt a bit like finally getting a diagnosis. Would totally recommend it. Relatively inexpensive and if nothing else makes for few fun and challenging hours. Greetings from Germany!🙂
oh wow! This is awesome to hear Simon, thanks for sharing your experience, I really appreciate it.
After speaking with Lee, the test invigilator, I can really understand your comment now.
I wish you a speedy recovery and health always
I took 2 standardized IQ tests for jobs in my life. The first one, in my mid 20s, i scored 129. The 2nd one, early 40s, in 2017 i was a 142. Glad to know i got smarter over time 😆The job where i had the 2nd IQ test also told me i have 100% perfect hearing (you had to listen and click every time you hear the tiniest sound and i didn't miss one). The way everyone's brain works is different, though, and having a high number isn't always an advantage. I alreadsy knew i was "highly intelligent" because i could read, write and speak 2 languages at age 4 and school was pretty much boring. I learned by myself by reading and watching TV and would sometimes correct the teachers (or they would be explaining things i already knew in a simpler way for other students to learn it first, and i was jumping ahead). I was always the best in my level/school, won national tests etc but i also lacked several social skills. I'm a high functioning autist so i'm good proficient in very specific areas but can appear as a total clutz or even an idiot in social situations. I'd say for most jobs in society, it's better to be close to the median range. I've learned to make the best of my abilities and understand where my shortcomings are in the social sphere and sort of make up for it, but yeah, higher number doesn't necessarily = better 👍
By the way you explained everything I’d say your IQ is about 40.
It could also be that you took 2 different iq tests, that's why the number is not that important as to in what percentile of the population you are
The test is brutal! So many questions less than 10 seconds each. I did pass and join USA Mensa at 63 years old. I recommend testing early in life!
Super interesting topic, Laura! I figured you'd do well! I would wager IQ varies from day to day, depending on how one is feeling. I know my brain is definitely working some days and not so much on others :) I took an IQ test while in college and scored fairly highly, but I always felt that it was a fluke (and I'm actually not very bright at all). I vowed to never take another and prove myself right!
it sounds as though that is how your brain may work Blakeford. Only from what I have learned about this so far.
Bet noone that watches you is surprised. But i9f you scored 70, you'd still be our favorite. It's what you do with what you were given that's important
When you said "when I really think about it, I'm nervous, but on the surface," my mind immediately went "he looks calm and ready" :P
Congratulations, that’s awesome 😊
cheers BB 👊
A Mensa member for over 30 years, well done for your excellent podcast on the test, it was great.
Thank you so much Jenny 🙏🏼
How do you know if someone is a MENSA member?
They will tell you!
@@gbone7581 They don’t capitalise Mensa.
@@jennygill-gm9ly Oops, so obviously I am not a member.😂
@@gbone7581 😆
I did the supervised Mensa test in my mid twenties scored 144, 25 years later I wouldn't get close to that now. Was a good experience though.
would you be tempted to give it another now?
Yes, agreed, our I Q is about mental agility. I have decided not to tell people my IQ because I once did and that person thinks that I am something special which is definitely not how I wish to be thought of. I enjoyed this video of your personal experience, Laura!
Great work.
I did the Mensa test two weeks ago and got a score of 152 on the Cattell 111 B test and 104 on the Culture Fair Scale. This means that I can join if I want to, although I don't know whether I will. My reason for doing the test was that I used to do boxing in my younger days. I have seen plenty of former boxers suffering from dementia as they get older (I am 62) and I wanted to keep my mind active to try and reduce my chances of developing dementia.
Thank you for making this video. I love your attitude about IQ, MENSA, & the stigmas surrounding them. Intelligence can be a touchy subject for many, and I've always disliked the idea of assigning a simple "score" to it. So many factors play into how a person does on tests like these: comfort, environment, experience, blood sugar. 😂 My personal experience with IQ testing was not ideal. I was in 2nd grade, had just endured a traumatic move to a new state, and was painfully shy to the point of not even talking in (public) school. I realize now that these factors likely affected my performance, but as a sensitive 7-year-old, not getting a "perfect" score on this test was devastating to me. So sad, I know! I've since recovered, thankfully. 😉
From what I've seen of your videos, you strike me as very intelligent, competent, methodical, and adventurous. Your consistent behavior proves your intelligence much more accurately than a single test score in my opinion. Regardless, great job on the test! Thanks for sharing this fun experience!
Thanks for sharing your experience of IQ testing Danielle. Wow, 7 years old and doing a test like that is intense in the best of conditions.
And thank you for your kind words 🙏🏼
@@LauraTryUK I think the test changes with age group so It was probably not as intense for you but still, a real IQ test like that would be so hard I imagine. I’ve only ever done online ones that don’t let you see your score unless you pay (which I refuse to lmao)
Northamptonshire, that's my area, you could have popped in for a coffee Laura lol✌️ 😁 ☕
No worry. I'm still your fan. :)
IQ is one of those things that get batted around quite a lot as to its validity as a measure of "intelligence".
It's the same, to me, as measuring what "fit" means.
Is it Usain Bolt, the sprinter?
Is it Eliud Kipchoge the current Olympic Gold Medallist in the Marathon?
The weightlifters? The swimmers? The Decathletes? The people that compete in Strongman competitions? The rock-climbers?
IQ measures a few components of intelligence in a specific way.
As you pointed out, your test guide has high IQ, but can't work out Ikea furniture.
Some people are very verbal, some visual, some aural - some have amazing abilities in 3D visualisation, some people can look at a bit of machinery and deduce how it all goes together at a glance.
Where does some of this high IQ start to fall into the realms of being on the autism spectrum, or those previously the savants?
And, of course - some people are very, very smart but just do not do well under test conditions.
Your nervousness at the start, after a trip to get to an unfamiliar location while probably distracted by having to use a chunk of your mental energy in working out how to make a good video out of it probably did not help your own score.
I took the Mensa test 20 years ago and was accepted as a member. I was told that they wouldn't tell me my exact score, but that it was at least 145. Very interesting. At 68 I can still do five numbers in my head, like 23 times 419, for example. It takes me a couple of minutes for five numbers, but I can do three in seconds.
I say you are very clever! Thanks for another interesting video.
There are 3 different SDs. SD15 (common in Europe), SD16 (common in USA), SD24 (most uncommon). So these two tests have SD16 and SD24 as standard deviation. So to find out the IQ with SD15 you have to use these formulas: 1.) IQ(SD15)=((IQ(SD16)-100)/16)x15+100 for the SD16-IQ test. The result for her is IQ(SD15):115.9375. 2.) IQ(SD15)=((IQ(SD24)-100)/24)x15+100 for the SD24-IQ test. The result for her in this test is IQ(SD15): 119.375.
Love your videos! Thanks Laura!
(just tickling the algorithm as much as anything but...) I sometimes find it funny how we talk about 'our brain' when in fact our brain is 'us': it is where we are. We are our brain, we aren't separate from it, it is us. So when we feel our 'brain hurting' (as opposed to a headache) we are feeling the physical manifestation of ourselves aching. Does that mean that we can exhaust or over exert who we are? When we suffer grief, depression, loss or trauma it is a different ache, we (our brain) detects and experiences it, but it is not often 'felt' in our in our brain, it is more in our body. Which is weird, I think. Anyway as always a wonderful video. cheers
a very good comment 🧠
I've always wanted to take an IQ test, but I'm also kind of afraid of the results. Basically because I've always been the "smart" one, but if I discovered that my IQ sucks and I'm not actually smart, It'd be kind of an ego hit. Oh well, I guess I'll probably just never know.
I feel the same way, but seeing Laura go through this with such a clear and balanced perspective makes me realise that it really REALLY doesn't matter. I have some neurological problems which have changed my pattern of thinking. It feels like a real loss of self but Laura's right, the speed of thought is similar to the speed of your legs or your flexibility. It might change and that's okay.
Well done Laura! I remember being made to do a WAIS IQ in a 1-1 setting, I had my 3MO daughter with me who was fussing most of the time 🙈 I either had to continue or I wouldn't have the opportunity to do it again, so I did it. I was told I scored one below genius whatever that means 🤷♀️🤣 I bet if I did it again, I wouldn't score anywhere near that as I feel like my brains functioning has turned to mush lol It would be interesting to look into that! Thank you for the inspiration 🤩
definitely give it another try A - see where you are at. You never know, the test may dust off some of the cobwebs.
What is WAIS by the way?
@@LauraTryUK I just went onto the online workout and then puzzles. First puzzle has already baffled me, gives you the answer and it makes no sense to me 🤣 One of those questions "what word comes after those on the left but before those on the right" The answer is Tree. I'm here like what is a shoe tree??? 🤔
So I have found out it's those things that expand shoes, I've only known them as stretchers 🤷♀️🤣
Sorry @@LauraTryUK! I didn't see your full comment. It's The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale. Google will probably explain the specifics better than me 🙈
New subscriber here! I love your videos! You are so positive and optimistic, and I really like what you said at the end about IQ, and how Mensa is a group of people that share a similar skill set - like a group of musicians. I'm inspired to take on some of the challenges in your videos! Perhaps my next challenge is getting the splits? Or doing UA-cam full-time? 😍
Learning new things helps with neural plasticity. Such as a new language. More than recall puzzles such as crosswords.
I would love to learn a new language. It's on my list but will need a good chunk of time to commit to it.
@@LauraTryUK a channel that I follow, Helena Woods, uses a certain program. If I can find it, I'll let you know. It is in small increments. See you, soon. Smarty! 📚🖋🤓🕵
I met Lee today, who led your test! He was talking about someone who'd come along to Northampton and made a video about Mensa - I was like, yep she's the reason I came along today!
Ooo I'm so gonna do this, well done on your fab scores 👍 lets see if I can beat you 😁
You are going to _love_ it! Such fun!
Are you UK based or elsewhere Chris?
@@LauraTryUK Great 😃 yes I'm in the UK
I am so excited for you.
If you did it, let me know what you think to it.
Interesting video.
Well done on your test score.
&
*Thinking* means *working with limited information*
So . ..
It's much *better to be productive and creative*
Stay happy:)
Mens in latin means "mind", as in "mens rea"
I've become very interested in the idea that there are multiple intelligences. Emotional intelligence is well known but I think a good carpenter has a kind of intelligence. Also ballet dancers have an awareness and control of their bodies which is a kind of body intelligence. I'm a software developer so traditional intelligence is useful but if you ask me to wrap a present it will look like it was done by a two-year old using just their toes.
what a fabulous comment about the carpenter and ballet dancer Ian!
So many things come under 'intelligence.'
❤great stuff!
That is still a very hi iq, Something to be proud of , well done
Really interesting vlog. Thanx.
Most people are brilliant at something!
You like challenges.... I have one for you: do whatever you want the way you want for so long as you can..... if you dare so.
hahaha, I like this challenge - I am already doing it! It's my life 😜
Being honest, you can learn to do these tests. Some time ago I bought mensa test books and after doing multiple of these, I started to get most answers correctly, although I am not that bright. So, i dont think it is such an important factor.
Well yeah obviously you improve If you train, that’s how literally anything works
I’m sure you know that Mensa accepts other tests than the ones that they administer. I qualified for Mensa (and Intertel - top 1%) on the Miller Analogies Test (MAT).
I have this sit down in 4 hours
Well, this test clearly measures SD 24, which would mean that, if and only if your FSIQ on average is exactly 124, then this would put you exactly one standard deviation above the average.
In other words, it would be fitting to describe you as “clever”, but nothing more. At least it puts you in the top 16 % of the most intelligent people, which means out of a hundred people, you will be smarter, statistically speaking, than 84 of them. The other people will be at least as intelligent as you are in the worst case and more intelligent than you are, normally.
It’s actually quite a good score.
My mum is a member of Mensa. No one else in the family dares take the test!
Hey B, does your mum being in Mensa? Does she attend the social events etc?
Take it on the sly, and if you are accepted only then tell your mum!
I think the stigma of having a high IQ comes from the people who love saying how high their IQ is, like it makes them better than others or right about everything. People also assume if you have a high IQ then your emotional/social IQ is probably on the low side.
You got a great score though, that's much higher than average!
Thanks for the comment MBH. It's tricky one navigating assessing people's and our own abilities isn't it.
I like your channel
Thank you! I like your comments 😀
I could tell you were at least 130 at before knowing the results. Well done!
i just did a workout thingy and got 15/18
is that good? I'm annoyed it wont tell us which we got wrong...
I'd be curious to see how much the score would change if you took the test every day for a couple weeks (if anyone could weather that) 😄. Also I bet score would improve as you'd simply get better at the test itself
I can only re-test after one year, but that's ok.
I can see how some people would be naturally better at this than others.
That’s why the actual test is closely guarded. These tests are designed for people going in “cold”. Your score also improve, however, if you practice with similar tests, just by getting used to the logic used in the riddles. I just cannot see the sense in doing so, since the only prize here is learning something about yourself and cheating wouldn’t give you any advatages.
@@elensila74Why do you see it as cheating, if one can improve his skill and intelligence does that not disprove that IQ score is set?
@@jsean7456 "Cheating" is probably not the best word for it.
IQ is not an absolute number, it is better expressed as one's level of intelligence measured against the average. If you train for weeks before your IQ test and possibly even find out the key to solving some of the questions from the actual test, your score against the score of all the other people who aren't familiar with the test will not be a realistic one. What I meant by cheating is that you might get a better score, but your result will not reflect you actual IQ. I don't see the point.
A few weeks of practice won't really raise your intelligence, it's just an advantage that most of the others don't have.
Of course the IQ of a person is not set, it naturally changes with their age, for example. It is also possible to improve your IQ, but it takes a lot more time than a couple of weeks. :)
@@jsean7456 I don't think it disproves that IQ score is set. I think sometimes people aren't able to master their max IQ and so some people could improve while others won't. I don't agree with that user. It wouldn't be cheating whatsoever. For example, I struggle to focus with new things. If I were to take the test once and then wait a year to take it again, I would most definitely do better and that's without even practicing. I believe I would improve with practice as well. That's always how I've learned anyway. I feel dumb at first and then I'm better at that thing than most everyone else.
good job.👍
Laura, how did you prepare for the Mensa test? Are there any resources that you would recommend? Thank you!
Hey, I didn't prepare for it, I just showed up.
great video.
cheers Timothy 👊
I know how intense those 1.5 hours goes.. but dont you like it ? I love that feelings ( especialy after test gets over ), its like coming outta hard workout lol.
but my experience is, score is not fixed, it changes the more you do. For first time it will be lil lower, but subsequently one gets lots of improvement on score.
that is what some other people have said Prem. So maybe I will practice and try again in 12 months.
@@LauraTryUK I was doing once in 2 months duration ( did 5 times ) with lots of in home practice's in between.. With time, brain capacity / speed picks up ( is the reason I believe ), but there still be some challenging tricky ones in between.
I would say you did great for a first time but I don't think you are kinda score chasing person.. you just wanna do different things :)
Mensa won't reveal an individuals "proctored" test scores. All you get is a PASS/FAIL notification. It's considered crass and taboo to discuss scores by the organization and its members.
How did you get them to share yours?
-TheUnMensan
Funfact: I took my test hungover. My self sabotage was strong in my 20's.
I did it just this past weekend, just for a laugh. I managed to answer all the questions at least. In the longer of the two papers, I found a couple of sections I had lots of time leftover, so ended up leaving the room to make a cup of tea during one section. Was a bit of fun. Not had the results yet, but I feel positive about it.
so how was the results ?
@@teresalehtonen8499 Top 1% in one, Top 2% in the other. Although part of me thinks they just say that to try and get as many people as possible to join. They are a business, after all.
You scores are high enough that you are capable creating works of genius. Where I went to graduate school, there was a huge study on the connection between high creative achievement and IQ. On those two tests, you take the highest score as the most indicative of general ability, if I remember. In this case, you're in the top 9%. You're a smart cookie. Not surprising.
You're very kind Todd, I found the first test (Cattell B) most enjoyable and _slightly_ easier for sure. However, could definitely brush up on many other life skills rather than always focusing on my creativity.
Thanks.
My guess for you was 131 and I was right according to one of the tests!
I used to have a really high IQ, but after my 50es it starts to decrease, i don't need to test it to feel, that it would be way, way lower.
I forget quicker and understand slower now. (I'm 61).
I'm sure, the IQ decreased with age.
(Sorry for my bad english)
Very interesting.
I did one, i must've got nearly all of them right because i got 80 out of 100
I have no clue how I got into mensa. Its been a week and just got the mail inviting me to join mensa. I first saw this video and thought ohh i wish I could get a score like that. I got 132 in 1st and 145 in 2nd …. Lmaooo how !! 🤣🤣 I thought id get around 120 or some
The reason for the 'social status' of having higher IQ's, ...this aptitude at problem solving, etc.
Is that humans are not rational actors. Purely emotional reposes to stimuli are the norm.
Supposedly, those with a higher IQ are able to distance themselves from their innate initial response.
How we deal with anxiety and stress, our flight or fight response, etc.
To take a moment, to pause and assess... is vital in life.
The lower the IQ, the less control you have over your stress and the more it controls you.
Laziness is the malady which affects most humans. Having a high IQ enables people to take advantage of this.
Many people can keep busy, the high IQ scorer will just achieve more in less time.
Around seventy percent of people 'the silent majority' are subservient to authority,
and habitually keep their emotions under control.
It's one of things that British people were infamous for. Their... stiff upper lip.
Stoicism which is a form of capitulation, knowing you're not in control... even when you believe you are.
To accept a situation and your inability to avert the outcome.
Owning a high IQ is knowing you can gain the best possible scenario out of 'most' situations.
It is hot wired into them. To see the malaise and laziness of others and clamber over them.
Those that are well socially adjusted will 'do well' in society generally,
those socially maladjusted will succeed in theoretical fields.
Having a high IQ score... will always show humans at their best ...and unfortunately also at their worst.
how is this not cultural? let me put it this way: can a culture that does not write, for example, produce any kind of intelligence test that would be acceptable by mensa as being comparable to their own?
Does any body have the national iq tests they can upload please.?
I am listed on the World Genius Directory
I'm 60 and I feel 200. Ergo, my IQ must be approximately 233.
Ask me anything.
😂😂😂
@@LauraTryUKplease what is your score in norway iq test?
Have to wonder if deep focus is becoming a lost skill for the average person, since the internet is turning our brains into clickfest mush.
I wonder that too.
But this test was a crash course in relearning deep focus too 😆
You can't average the scores as they're on different scales.
Thats a good iq.
mensa mensa mensam......if you've ever done latin you'll never forget😆
I had to google this.....
117-131 iq but you can't work out the average of those numbers without a calculator?😅😅
I have a 70 iq but I'm happy
No reason to be disappointed with that result. If you google bell curve and iq, you'll see that you actually are among the 16% smartest people in the population, and that ain't bad is it?
That was exactly my reasoning. What I find even more interesting is that most people are unaware of SD like 15, 16 or 24. If you ask them about their IQ, the answer most likely will be a concrete score and not a percentile or percentage. Just an interesting observation
@@sonicmaths8285 : True, sonic. True ...
@@sonicmaths8285 : Actually ... in early versions of IQ-tests they asked immigrants to the US about American culture, how many states they had, names of earlier presidents and so on. Since the immigrants had limited knowledge about this, most of them was scored as mentally retarded. Not especially scientific you could rightly say. Luckily ... todays IQ-tests are more universal and concentrated on pattern recognition and general logic skills and therefore could be applied on a global population without such concerns.
I did an IQ test when I was a kid. I got 141. I'm pretty sure nowadays its below 110 😜
crumbs! that's mega!
I bet you still have it pc - from what I understand, it's a natural ability.
Are you tempted to try another test to see where you are at?
@@LauraTryUK yep. I was just browsing Mensa's Montreal website. Let's see 😬
bro you just found an average of sd24 and sd16. If calculated correctly your iq is around 120 sd15
they should have a womensa test so women can feel smart too.
not very clever since clever and smart arent the same
Vo2 max = mensa
correct
The whole IQthing is flawed.
Says people who scored low on the IQ test.
A better indicator of IQ is knowing that these test are worthless indicators of intelligence. What good is having a high IQ score when you can't tie your own shoestrings?
People with high iq can tie their shoes if they can move. If you were clever you would know that.
@@deltalima6703 if you say so.
Imagine thinking that people at the top 2% of IQ can't tie their own shoestrings, just how stupid can one be to make such a comment?