The Raven Test is a test used to measure intelligence through the resolution of matrices. Learn how to solve the test, what it consists of, and how to interpret the results.
The Raven Progressive Matrices test is a psychometric test whose main objective is to measure an elementary component of intelligence: the ability to reason abstractly, also known as the G factor. This test was designed by John C. Raven and can be used for a psychotechnical exam, a psychological test, or a personnel selection process.
What does the Raven Test measure?
Psychometric tests originated as tools to measure the psyche (mind) and define the different capacities that humans possess.
The Raven test is part of a set of psychometric tests intended to assess intelligence, more specifically, it examines the G factor.
By solving matrices and figuring out which piece completes the image, the Raven test measures logical reasoning ability and abstraction capacity.
What is the G factor?
The Raven matrices test is based on “the eclectic theory of two factors” proposed by Charles Spearman. This theory states that there are two types of intelligence: the “G” factor, defined as the general ability characteristic of human cognitive skills, and the “S” factor, which refers to the special or specific skill of each individual, dependent on education.
According to Spearman’s bifactorial model, Raven used the deduction of relationships and correlates in his test to measure the G factor.
This factor is equivalent to the ability to solve logical and mathematical problems and the general educational ability of an individual, providing information about the clarity of thought and the ability of the test subject for intellectual activity.
What does the IQ test consist of?
The Raven Progressive Matrices Test consists of different geometric designs, or matrices, formed by non-verbal elements, and lasts approximately 60 minutes. To respond, you must analyze the series presented and, following the horizontal and vertical sequence, choose one of the six or eight suggested pieces that complete the sequence perfectly.
The strategies needed to solve the test are based on the ability to abstract and interpret the situation globally. The person must use their analogical reasoning ability to interpret each matrix and find relationships between the design shapes, thus organizing the information to find the correct solution.
Types of Raven Test
Initially, a general scale was developed capable of evaluating all types of individuals. Later, more scales were created adapted to other types of populations.
There are three versions of this test, which are applied based on the age and abilities of the test subject:
- Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM): The first general scale developed consists of 60 matrices grouped into five series of twelve matrices each (Series A, B, C, D, E), where the complexity increases as the exam progresses. This scale is the most commonly used and was created to assess subjects between 12 and 65 years old. All matrices are presented in black ink on a white background.
- Color Progressive Matrices (CPM): This scale was created for the evaluation of children between 4 and 10 years old and for adults with lower intellectual ability. It consists of 36 matrices grouped into three series of twelve matrices each. The main differences with the general scale are:
- A reduction in the number of series: the most difficult series are eliminated, and the simpler ones are kept (Series A and B), along with an intermediate difficulty series (Series AB).
- Inclusion of colors: the matrices are presented in color to make them more attractive and aid in understanding the test.
- Application method: in addition to the typical response booklet, the test can also be taken using a board.
- Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM): The higher scale of the test was adapted for the evaluation of adolescents and adults with intellectual abilities above average. It consists of a total of 48 matrices grouped into two series, Series I with 12 elements and Series II with 36. The difficulty of this test is greater than that of the first general scale in all series.
Take the Raven Test and engage your analogical reasoning, perception, and abstraction ability.
Interpretation of the Raven Test
As previously explained, the Raven test is based on correctly completing the sequence of 60 matrices or problems spread across 5 series. After completing the test, the correct answers are summed, and the percentile table is consulted according to the age of the person who took the test. Once the percentile is obtained, it is compared with the intelligence table that relates each range to intellectual ability.
The values are presented in percentiles to provide a point of reference against a normalized group and allow comparison between individuals.
For example, a percentile of 75 would indicate that out of 100 values, 75 have obtained lower scores, and 25 have obtained a higher score.
Beyond human peculiarities, the authors proposed a scale of five levels of intellectual ability (Raven, et al., 1996):
- Grade I or “intellectually superior,” percentile score of 95 or higher.
- Grade II or “above average in intellectual ability,” percentile score between 75-94.
- Grade III or “average in intellectual ability,” percentile score between 25-74.
- Grade IV or “below average in intellectual ability,” percentile score between 6-25.
- Grade V or “intellectual deficit,” percentile score of 5 or lower.
Online Raven Test
If you want to measure your IQ, you can take the Raven Test in our app. Download Free Vocational Test.
This article is purely informational. At Vocational Test, we are not qualified to diagnose or recommend treatment. We encourage you to consult a psychologist to address your specific case.
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