| Theory | Summary | Strengths | Other Considerations |
| Spearman’s general intelligence (g) | A basic intelligence predicts our abilities in varied academic areas. | Different abilities, such as verbal and spatial, do have some tendency to correlate. | Human abilities are too diverse to be encapsulated by a single general intelligence factor. |
| Gardner’s multiple intelligences | Our abilities are best classified into eight or nine independent intelligences, which include a broad range of skills beyond traditional school smarts. | Intelligence is more than just verbal and mathematical skills. Other abilities are equally important to our human adaptability. | Should all of our abilities be considered intelligences? Shouldn’t some be called less vital talents? |
| Sternberg’s triarchic theory | Our intelligence is best classified into three areas that predict rea | These three domains can be reliably measured. | 1. These three domains may be less independent than Sternberg thought and may actually share an underlying g factor. 2. Additional testing is needed to determine whether these domains can reliably predict success. |
| Emotional intelligence | Social intelligence is an important indicator of life success. Emotional intelligence is a key aspect, consisting of perceiving, understanding, managing, and using emotions. | The four components that predict social success. | Does this stretch the concept of intelligence too far? |