What is crystallized intelligence?

Crystallized intelligence refers to the ability to utilize knowledge and experience that have been accumulated over time. It encompasses skills and information that are learned throughout life, such as vocabulary, general knowledge, and the ability to apply past experiences to current situations. This form of intelligence grows as a person matures and is influenced by education, cultural exposure, and personal experiences.

The other choices focus on different aspects of cognitive abilities. The ability to reason abstractly is more aligned with fluid intelligence, which involves problem-solving and adapting to new situations without relying on prior knowledge. Solving new problems and thinking quickly in novel situations also pertain to fluid intelligence, which relies on the cognitive flexibility to navigate unfamiliar scenarios. Crystallized intelligence, in contrast, emphasizes the strength of accumulated knowledge and experience, making it vital for tasks that draw upon previously learned information.