Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsTwo INTJ Sub-TypesCharacteristicsCognitive FunctionsRelationshipsCareer PathsInteracting WithTakeawaysNext in Myers-Briggs Type Indicator GuideINTP: Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Two INTJ Sub-Types
Characteristics
Cognitive Functions
Relationships
Career Paths
Interacting With
Takeaways
Next in Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Guide
Close
Sometimes referred to as the “Architect” or the “Strategist,” people with an INTJ personality are highly analytical, creative, and logical.You might recognize them for their independent, ambitious, and goal-oriented traits. They are super logical and well-informed—they love staying caught up on the latest facts and events of the world. They are highly curious and have a passion for learning, but they are also willing to consider multiple points of view and reconsider their opinions in light of new information.
At a GlanceKeep reading to learn more about the characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses of the INTJ personality type. However, remember that this should not be interpreted as health, psychological, or professional career advice. It’s a way to learn more about some of your possible characteristics so you can better understand yourself, your tendencies, and your challenges.
At a Glance
Keep reading to learn more about the characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses of the INTJ personality type. However, remember that this should not be interpreted as health, psychological, or professional career advice. It’s a way to learn more about some of your possible characteristics so you can better understand yourself, your tendencies, and your challenges.
Verywell / JR Bee
There are two INTJ subtypes: INTJ-A and INTJ-T.
How Rare is the INTJ Personality?According to psychologist David Keirsey, developer of the Keirsey Temperament Sorter, approximately 1% to 4% of the population has an INTJ personality type. (The rarest personality type isINFJ.)
How Rare is the INTJ Personality?
According to psychologist David Keirsey, developer of the Keirsey Temperament Sorter, approximately 1% to 4% of the population has an INTJ personality type. (The rarest personality type isINFJ.)
The MBTI is one of the most popular psychological assessments, but critics have argued that it lacks bothvalidityandreliability.If you take the MBTI, use caution when considering the meaning of your results.
Key INTJ Characteristics
INTJs are also often described as being:
What is an INTJ personality like in everyday life? Here are a few key characteristics:
StrengthsEnjoys theoretical and abstract conceptsHigh expectationsGood at listeningTakes criticism wellSelf-confident and hard-workingWeaknessesCan be overly analytical and judgmentalVery perfectionisticDislikes talking about emotionsSometimes seems callous or insensitive
StrengthsEnjoys theoretical and abstract conceptsHigh expectationsGood at listeningTakes criticism wellSelf-confident and hard-working
Enjoys theoretical and abstract concepts
High expectations
Good at listening
Takes criticism well
Self-confident and hard-working
WeaknessesCan be overly analytical and judgmentalVery perfectionisticDislikes talking about emotionsSometimes seems callous or insensitive
Can be overly analytical and judgmental
Very perfectionistic
Dislikes talking about emotions
Sometimes seems callous or insensitive
Cognitive Functions of the INTJ Personality Type
The MBTI, which is based upon psychoanalyst Carl Jung’s theory of personality, utilizes what is known as a ‘functional stack’ to understand each personality.
Each of the four cognitive functions is either inwardly facing (introverted) or outwardly facing (extroverted), and they combine and interact in a variety of ways.
Each personality type possesses a dominant function that sets the tone for that specific type. In addition to this dominant function, auxiliary, tertiary, and inferior functions play supporting roles in making up an individual’s personality characteristics.
INTJs rely on the following four key cognitive functions.
Dominant: Introverted Intuition (Ni)
INTJs use introverted intuition, often abbreviated Ni, to look atpatterns, meanings, and possibilities. That means that instead of looking at concrete facts, they are more interested in what they mean.
INTJs also enjoy thinking about the future and exploring possibilities. They like to consider all of the possible options and imagine different possibilities, which can influence their day-to-day decision-making.
Because they think more about the big picture, INTJs tend to remember impressions more than exact details of what occurred. So, while they might struggle to remember the specifics, they are good at recalling the general gist or idea behind past events.
Abstract thinkingcomes naturally to people with the INTJ personality type. As a result, they are good at “reading between the lines” to figure out what things might really mean.
Auxiliary: Extraverted Thinking (Ti)
The auxiliary function help bring balance to personality. If a person used their dominant function all of the time, their personality would be one-dimension. While the dominant function might drive personality, the auxiliary function is there to offer tips, directions, and support.
For the INTJ, it’s extraverted thinking, often abbreviated Ti, that steps in to offer assistance. As a secondary function in the INTJ personality, extroverted thinking leads people with this type to seek order,control, and structure in the world around them.
Thanks to this extraverted thinking function, INTJs can be very deliberate and methodical whenapproaching problems.
People with an INTJ personality type tend to make decisions based on logic. They organize their thoughts to see cause-and-effect relationships.
Tertiary: Introverted Feeling (Fi)
The tertiary function is less developed than the dominant and auxiliary functions. We are often less conscious of it and may not feel as comfortable using it. In many cases, this function tends to emerge when we are under stress.
This function involves being able to think about emotions, including understanding your own feelings as well as those of others. When this function moves to the forefront, it often means making decisions based on an emotional response rather than a logical one.
An INTJ who develops this aspect of their personality more fully pays greater attention to values and feelings whenmaking decisions. As a result, they may also feel more drawn to people and activities that are well-aligned with their values.
Inferior: Extraverted Sensing (Se)
The inferior function is the least developed part of personality. It is not used often, and when we do, we may run into problems. It also represents the opposite of the dominant function.
In INTJs, extraverted sensing, often abbreviated Se, tends to be the least developed of their cognitive functions. While weak, it does still exert some influence. This function allows an INTJ to process information through their senses.
INTJs You Might KnowFamous INTJs through time include:Thomas Jefferson, U.S. PresidentC.S. Lewis, authorArnold Schwarzenegger, actor and politicianGandalf,The Lord of the RingsLance Armstrong, cyclist
INTJs You Might Know
Famous INTJs through time include:Thomas Jefferson, U.S. PresidentC.S. Lewis, authorArnold Schwarzenegger, actor and politicianGandalf,The Lord of the RingsLance Armstrong, cyclist
Famous INTJs through time include:
Personal Relationships With INTJs
While they tend not to be particularly interested in other people’s thoughts and feelings, INTJs do care about the emotions of the select group of people with whom they are close. In personal relationships, INTJs are willing to devote time and energy toward making these relationships successful.
People with this type of personality often see little value in social rituals and small talk, making it more difficult to get to know them. Other people may interpret INTJs as cool, aloof, and disinterested, which can makeforming new friendshipswith them challenging.
INTJ CompatibilityPersonality types that mesh well with an INTJ, potentially making them good relationship choices, includeENFP,ENTP, andESTP. INTJs tend to have less compatibility with someone who is anISFP,ISFJ, orESFJpersonality type.
INTJ Compatibility
Personality types that mesh well with an INTJ, potentially making them good relationship choices, includeENFP,ENTP, andESTP. INTJs tend to have less compatibility with someone who is anISFP,ISFJ, orESFJpersonality type.
Career Paths for an INTJ
When INTJs develop an interest in something, they strive to become as knowledgeable and skilled as they can in that area. They havehigh expectationsand hold themselves to the highest possible standards.
INTJs are good at gathering information from the outside world, analyzing it, and reaching new insights. People with this personality type tend to be very analytical and logical.
INTJs value information, knowledge, and intelligence, making them excellent scientists and mathematicians. They also tend to do particularly well in fields that require efficiency and the ability to interpret complex information, such as engineering, academia, law, andresearch.
INTJs typically do well in careers that integrate their strong ability to understand and evaluate complex information with their ability to put this knowledge into practice. Careers that allow the INTJ to work independently and autonomously are also ideal.
Popular INTJ CareersScientistMathematicianEngineerDentistDoctorTeacherJudgeLawyer
Popular INTJ Careers
ScientistMathematicianEngineerDentistDoctorTeacherJudgeLawyer
Tips for Interacting With INTJs
If you have an INTJ in your life, here are tips for interacting with them based on your relationship.
Friendships
INTJs tend to be solitary and self-sufficient, soestablishing friendshipscan sometimes be difficult. Because people with this personality type tend to think so much of the future, they may avoid getting to know people because they believe that a long-term friendship will not work out.
The good news is that while INTJs may not have a lot of friends, they do become very close and committed to those who persist. INTJs tend to prefer friends who are also introverted, rational, and low on emotional drama.
Parenting
If your child is an INTJ, focus on finding ways to encourage their intellectual strengths, but try to find a balance toavoid excessive perfectionism.You can also help your INTJ child develop their emotional strengths and find ways to express their feelings.
Because they can be difficult to get to know, romantic relationships with an INTJ can sometimes falter. If your partner has this personality type, it is important to know that loyalty and understanding are important.
Don’t be afraid to show that you are dedicated to your INTJ partner, but also don’t pressure them to spill their emotions.
Communication is criticalwhen you’re in a relationship with an INTJ. Rather than expecting your partner to pick up on your subtle cues, focus on being straightforward or even blunt about what you expect.
As with other personality types, it’s important to remember that the INTJ personality is unique. No two people are exactly alike, so your own personality may vary in terms of each unique characteristic.
Learning more about your personalitytype can help. This will help you better understand your tendencies, appreciate your strengths, and feel prepared to deal with some of the challenges you may face.
What Are My Dominant Personality Traits? Take the Quiz and Find Out
7 SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Spiotta AM.Incorporation of personality typing into a neurologic surgery residency program: Utility in systems based practice, professionalism, and self-reflection.World Neurosurg. 2018;120:e1041-e1046. doi:10.1016/j.wneu.2018.09.007Carlson JG.Recent assessments of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.J Pers Assess. 1985;49(4):356-65. doi:10.1207/s15327752jpa4904_3Roesler C.Evidence for the effectiveness of Jungian psychotherapy: A review of empirical studies.Behav Sci (Basel). 2013;3(4):562-75. doi:10.3390/bs3040562Huang Y.Analysis on artist neuropsychology and art creation.Transl Neurosci. 2019;10:64-69. doi:10.1515/tnsci-2019-0011Myers & Briggs Foundation.The processes of type dynamics.Jafrani S, Zehra N, Zehra M, Abuzar ali SM, Abubakar mohsin SA, Azhar R.Assessment of personality type and medical specialty choice among medical students from Karachi; using Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) tool.J Pak Med Assoc. 2017;67(4):520-526. PMID: 28420908Amos SP, Homan GJ, Sollo N, Ahlers-schmidt CR, Engel M, Rawlins P.The relationship of personality style and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.Kans J Med. 2017;10(2):26-29. PMID: 29472963Additional ReadingHirsch SK, Kummerow J.Introduction to Type in Organizations: Individual Interpretive Guide.Keirsey D.Please Understand Me II: Temperament, Character, Intelligence.Myers IB.Introduction to Type: A Guide to Understanding your Results on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.
7 Sources
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Spiotta AM.Incorporation of personality typing into a neurologic surgery residency program: Utility in systems based practice, professionalism, and self-reflection.World Neurosurg. 2018;120:e1041-e1046. doi:10.1016/j.wneu.2018.09.007Carlson JG.Recent assessments of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.J Pers Assess. 1985;49(4):356-65. doi:10.1207/s15327752jpa4904_3Roesler C.Evidence for the effectiveness of Jungian psychotherapy: A review of empirical studies.Behav Sci (Basel). 2013;3(4):562-75. doi:10.3390/bs3040562Huang Y.Analysis on artist neuropsychology and art creation.Transl Neurosci. 2019;10:64-69. doi:10.1515/tnsci-2019-0011Myers & Briggs Foundation.The processes of type dynamics.Jafrani S, Zehra N, Zehra M, Abuzar ali SM, Abubakar mohsin SA, Azhar R.Assessment of personality type and medical specialty choice among medical students from Karachi; using Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) tool.J Pak Med Assoc. 2017;67(4):520-526. PMID: 28420908Amos SP, Homan GJ, Sollo N, Ahlers-schmidt CR, Engel M, Rawlins P.The relationship of personality style and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.Kans J Med. 2017;10(2):26-29. PMID: 29472963Additional ReadingHirsch SK, Kummerow J.Introduction to Type in Organizations: Individual Interpretive Guide.Keirsey D.Please Understand Me II: Temperament, Character, Intelligence.Myers IB.Introduction to Type: A Guide to Understanding your Results on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Spiotta AM.Incorporation of personality typing into a neurologic surgery residency program: Utility in systems based practice, professionalism, and self-reflection.World Neurosurg. 2018;120:e1041-e1046. doi:10.1016/j.wneu.2018.09.007Carlson JG.Recent assessments of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.J Pers Assess. 1985;49(4):356-65. doi:10.1207/s15327752jpa4904_3Roesler C.Evidence for the effectiveness of Jungian psychotherapy: A review of empirical studies.Behav Sci (Basel). 2013;3(4):562-75. doi:10.3390/bs3040562Huang Y.Analysis on artist neuropsychology and art creation.Transl Neurosci. 2019;10:64-69. doi:10.1515/tnsci-2019-0011Myers & Briggs Foundation.The processes of type dynamics.Jafrani S, Zehra N, Zehra M, Abuzar ali SM, Abubakar mohsin SA, Azhar R.Assessment of personality type and medical specialty choice among medical students from Karachi; using Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) tool.J Pak Med Assoc. 2017;67(4):520-526. PMID: 28420908Amos SP, Homan GJ, Sollo N, Ahlers-schmidt CR, Engel M, Rawlins P.The relationship of personality style and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.Kans J Med. 2017;10(2):26-29. PMID: 29472963
Spiotta AM.Incorporation of personality typing into a neurologic surgery residency program: Utility in systems based practice, professionalism, and self-reflection.World Neurosurg. 2018;120:e1041-e1046. doi:10.1016/j.wneu.2018.09.007
Carlson JG.Recent assessments of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.J Pers Assess. 1985;49(4):356-65. doi:10.1207/s15327752jpa4904_3
Roesler C.Evidence for the effectiveness of Jungian psychotherapy: A review of empirical studies.Behav Sci (Basel). 2013;3(4):562-75. doi:10.3390/bs3040562
Huang Y.Analysis on artist neuropsychology and art creation.Transl Neurosci. 2019;10:64-69. doi:10.1515/tnsci-2019-0011
Myers & Briggs Foundation.The processes of type dynamics.
Jafrani S, Zehra N, Zehra M, Abuzar ali SM, Abubakar mohsin SA, Azhar R.Assessment of personality type and medical specialty choice among medical students from Karachi; using Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) tool.J Pak Med Assoc. 2017;67(4):520-526. PMID: 28420908
Amos SP, Homan GJ, Sollo N, Ahlers-schmidt CR, Engel M, Rawlins P.The relationship of personality style and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.Kans J Med. 2017;10(2):26-29. PMID: 29472963
Hirsch SK, Kummerow J.Introduction to Type in Organizations: Individual Interpretive Guide.Keirsey D.Please Understand Me II: Temperament, Character, Intelligence.Myers IB.Introduction to Type: A Guide to Understanding your Results on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.
Hirsch SK, Kummerow J.Introduction to Type in Organizations: Individual Interpretive Guide.
Keirsey D.Please Understand Me II: Temperament, Character, Intelligence.
Myers IB.Introduction to Type: A Guide to Understanding your Results on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.
Meet Our Review Board
Share Feedback
Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit
What is your feedback?
