How the IQ Raven test works
The IQ Raven test is an online, non-verbal reasoning test. It uses visual pattern questions in the style of Raven's Progressive Matrices, so you do not need any particular language skills or school knowledge to take it.
Step by step
- Start the test. You begin from the home page. No account is needed to start.
- Answer 20 visual pattern questions. Each question shows a grid of shapes with one piece missing. You pick the option that completes the pattern.
- Get your result. After the last question your answers are scored and an IQ estimate is calculated.
- Optional: unlock your detailed results and certificate. The detailed results and a shareable certificate are available for a one-time payment of $9.99.
What kind of questions are these?
Every question is a matrix puzzle: you look for the rule that links the shapes across rows and down columns, such as a shape that rotates, a pattern that grows or a feature that is added or removed. Then you choose the piece that fits the rule. Early questions use one simple rule. Later questions combine several rules, which makes them harder. You can read more about the format on our page about Raven's Progressive Matrices.
Tips for a fair result
- Take the test in a quiet place without interruptions.
- Read each pattern carefully before you look at the answer options.
- Work out the rule first, then pick the piece. Guessing lowers the accuracy of the estimate.
- Do not retake it many times in a row, because you will start to remember the patterns.
How to read your score
Your score is placed on the common IQ scale, where 100 is the average. See the IQ score chart to understand what a score means and how rare it is.
What this test is not
A short online test gives an estimate. It is not a clinical assessment and cannot diagnose anything. If you need an official result, for example for education, a membership organization or a medical or legal reason, ask a licensed psychologist for a supervised test.
Questions about the test or your certificate? Contact us.