What is the primary purpose of the IQ test?

The primary purpose of the IQ test is to evaluate an individual’s intellectual abilities in relation to others. IQ tests are designed to provide a standardized assessment of a person's cognitive abilities, encompassing problem-solving skills, logical reasoning, memory, and comprehension. By comparing an individual's score to a normative sample, the test aims to quantify where that person stands in terms of intelligence compared to the general population.

This measurement can help identify intellectual strengths and weaknesses and is often used in educational settings to inform support and placement decisions. While IQ tests may correlate with certain academic outcomes, their main focus is on cognitive ability rather than specific knowledge or skills. The concept of assessing intelligence against a broader normative framework is central to the purpose of IQ testing.