INTPs (also known as The Logician or The Engineer) are probably the most pensive, conceptual, and independent among the 16 personality types. That shouldn’t come as a surprise given that their Preferences are: Introversion, Intuition, Thinking, and Perceiving.
INTPs only make up around 2.5% of the population, so they can be rare! Still, you might be lucky enough to have an INTP in your life (or be one yourself). These individuals bring unique insights, a sharp intellect, and a playful sense of humor to their relationships. They can also be a formidable part of any team because of their intuitive ability to dissect problems and create efficient solutions. But what exactly sets them apart? How can you tell if someone’s an INTP rather than another personality type altogether?
Even without asking someone to take a personality test, you can look out for tell-tale signs that they’re an INTP. In this article, we’ll weigh INTPs against other personality types. Even personality types who only differ in one preference – such as INTPs and INFPs – can have very contrasting behaviors. Hopefully, by the end of this article, you’ll have a deeper knowledge of what makes INTPs so unique!
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INTP Characteristics
The INTP personality type epitomizes what it means to be a free thinker. INTPs are insatiably curious, and they typically regard every new piece of information with healthy skepticism, accepting it only when it has logical validity. This may not be apparent right away, though. Most INTPs don’t open up quickly, instead keeping their thought processes to themselves. What gives their personality type away, then? Here’s a short list of notable INTP characteristics:
- Can seem withdrawn around people they don’t know well, but become very talkative when discussing their niche interests
- Prefer to work independently rather than being in a team or directing people
- Notice logical errors both in written form and in conversation and may correct others bluntly
- Can get into analysis paralysis because they’re always questioning what they truly believe
- Challenge rules and social conventions by thinking of hypothetical exceptions
- May jump from one topic to another in a seemingly random way
- Occasionally oblivious to their environment and prone to spacing out
How Do INTPs Compare to Other Personality Types?
Something important that you should be aware of is that each personality type is made up of a combination of different preferences. These preferences are:
- Extroversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)
- Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)
- Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)
- Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)
On top of this, each personality type has specific cognitive functions that they use the most, like Introverted Thinking or Extroverted Intuition, for example. This means that no two introverted personality types are the same, because their top cognitive functions differ from one another. By considering both cognitive functions and preferences, we can spot an INTP person more accurately. Read on to discover how to identify INTPs as compared to the 15 other types:
INTPs vs SJ Temperament Types
SJ temperament types (ESTJ, ESFJ, ISTJ, and ISFJ) are driven by the Sensing and Judging preferences. These personality types are very structured, and they like establishing and following rules. To them, planning carefully and abiding by an organization’s norms are essential for society’s smooth existence. As a result, they’re responsible and dedicated, often fueled by a strong work ethic. All SJ types rely on the cognitive function Introverted Sensing to a certain extent, which makes them attached to the past and to established ways of doing things. Out of all the four temperament types, INTPs are least like the SJ types. INTPs are likely to make reasoned arguments against some traditional rules, and they don’t cope well with too much structure.
INTP vs ESTJ
The ESTJ personality type (also known as The Administrator) is practical, hard-working, and committed to traditional values. Their take-charge attitude makes them well-suited for leadership roles. With Extroverted Thinking as their dominant cognitive function, they’re typically very objective and logical when making decisions. They’re also compelled to organize people and processes for maximum efficiency, and they tend to be blunt when sharing their opinions. Although they take their responsibilities seriously, they still make time for connecting with others. Being part of a larger community is important for them, and they’re happy to bring people together, whether through spending time with family or being active in local groups.
It’s rare for INTPs and ESTJs to be mistyped with each other because they typically don’t have many shared interests and values. ESTJs are outgoing, assertive, and action-oriented. They’re much more focused on practical considerations rather than abstract ideas, and they prefer making decisions quickly yet thoroughly. On the other hand, INTPs pay more attention to their own thoughts and their inner world instead of what’s going on in their external environment. They usually need more time to consider different alternatives, which is why their strengths lie in brainstorming and ideation rather than implementation.
The common ground between these two types is that they tend to have an unemotional perspective, relying on hard facts rather than feelings. However, ESTJs are much more respectful of authority and tradition. In contrast, INTPs may disregard traditions if they don’t make logical sense. INTPs are also among the personality types who are the most likely to be distrustful of authority, and they take an independent stance rather than following the crowd.
INTP vs ESFJ
The ESFJ personality type (also known as The Caregiver) is an extremely people-oriented personality type. They are nurturing and supportive, constantly looking out for the wellbeing of everyone around them. ESFJs want to be accepted by society, so they are likely to stick to established social norms in order to get in the good graces of those around them. Their dominant cognitive function is Extroverted Feeling, which makes them highly sensitive to the feelings of others. Because of this, they can adjust their behavior smoothly to match the needs of different social situations. Aside from being considerate, ESFJs are also organized and reliable, often putting their responsibilities before personal pleasure.
Since INTPs and ESFJs don’t share any preferences at all, these two personality types can have a hard time understanding each other. Mistypings between these two are uncommon, especially since differences in their behavior are quite apparent even from a distance. INTPs are frequently likened to absent-minded professors who become animated when they’re discussing exciting concepts. Their wacky, silly side is apparent in close friendships, but they’re usually more quiet and aloof at first. ESFJs are likely to be social butterflies who enjoy attending and organizing events. They’re often open and expressive about how they’re feeling, and they may spend most of their free time being surrounded by other people.
Each type’s weakness is actually the other type’s strength. Unlike ESFJs, INTPs aren’t very attuned to others’ feelings, and they would rather give practical advice than emotional comfort. They’re also not as comfortable socially, to the point that too much time around people can become draining for them. In contrast, ESFJs struggle with the kind of objective problem-solving that INTPs excel at, and ESFJs are also prone to taking things personally and stubbornly sticking with their initial judgments instead of remaining open-minded like an INTP.
INTP vs ISFJ
The ISFJ personality type (also known as The Defender) is compassionate, methodical, and quietly supportive, preferring to work behind the scenes. While ISFJs can be shy, requiring plenty of alone time to recharge, they cherish their personal relationships. They feel satisfied when they can be of service to others. Their dominant function is Introverted Sensing, which makes them prone to focusing on details and concrete information. Because of this, ISFJs usually look to their past experiences when deciding what to do. They hold traditions in high esteem, and routine is stabilizing for them. Given their perfectionistic streak, they’re also dedicated to their tasks, setting high standards for themselves.
Both INTPs and ISFJs are introverts who are thoughtful and reflective. But aside from their Introversion, they don’t have other preferences in common. This means that they approach the world in fundamentally different ways. For one, ISFJs seek out structure by building routines into their day and putting their obligations first. Duty is extremely important for ISFJs. In comparison, INTPs tend to avoid structure, favoring a more free-flowing approach instead. They find too many rules and guidelines constraining.
Despite being introverted, ISFJs are much more mindful of social values than INTPs, making small talk when they have to and remembering traditions such as holidays and birthdays. They’re helpful on their own initiative, but they may have a greater need for affirmation and positive feedback. INTPs don’t care about this as much, and they have a more pronounced individualistic streak. Compared to soft-spoken ISFJs, INTPs appreciate bluntness even if it’s potentially insensitive. They’re fond of debating or questioning other people’s assumptions, while ISFJs may shy away from this behavior.
INTP vs ISTJ
The ISTJ personality type (also known as The Archivist) is decisive and orderly, with a keen sense of right and wrong. Their no-nonsense attitude makes them very reliable, since they constantly put work before play. ISTJs are upholders of rules, standards, and social conventions, and they seek to embody integrity in their actions. They keep their promises and stand up for their principles. With Introverted Sensing as their dominant cognitive function, ISTJs are very observant of their surroundings. This gives them an excellent grasp of details, and they trust lived experiences and facts above all else. ISTJs are in their element when they can accomplish tasks for the sake of a clear objective. They strive to be independent, relying on themselves rather than playing to others’ whims.
INTPs can occasionally mistype as ISTJs since they both appreciate rational thought, honesty, and competence. These two personality types have a direct way of speaking as well. However, there are many significant differences between them. ISTJs are meticulous with physical details, and they’re sharply aware of inconsistencies in their environment. INTPs have a similar meticulousness, but it’s directed towards abstract concepts. They can be absent-minded, even forgetting to eat or sleep when they’re deeply absorbed, but they painstakingly assess concepts from multiple perspectives and rarely let logical errors slip. While ISTJs trust in facts more than anything else, INTPs are more fascinated with theory.
ISTJs are also more risk-averse and cautious than INTPs. Even though INTPs usually try to gather information before making a decision, they seek out new ideas and experiences on purpose, even if they are outside what they’ve considered previously. ISTJs would rather efficiently turn to what has already worked before. Unlike INTPs, they have set life goals and routines.
INTPs vs SP Temperament Types
SP temperament types (ESTP, ESFP, ISTP, and ISFP) are driven by the Sensing and Perceiving preferences. These personality types are very spontaneous and are good at thinking on their feet. They often like to tinker with various gadgets and tools, and they make great artists. Personality types from the SP temperament are fun, energetic, and always ready to tell a good story. The communication style of SP types can be too grounded and concrete for abstract-thinking INTPs, but INTPs and SP types can resonate in terms of being adaptable and wanting to broaden their horizons.
INTP vs ESTP
The ESTP personality type (also known as the Daredevil) is charming, talkative, and thrill-seeking. A fast-paced life suits them well, as they’re constantly looking to push boundaries and jump right into the action. Regardless of what situation they’re in, ESTPs make quite an impression because of their raw energy and passion. Their dominant function is Extroverted Sensing, which means they derive their energy most from interacting with other people and living in the moment. Although they’re primarily logical thinkers, ESTPs have a knack for persuasion because they can interpret nonverbal communication very well. They are usually defiant when it comes to rules, and they’re at ease with thinking quickly on their feet and coming up with practical solutions.
INTPs can relate to ESTPs’ craving for novelty and dislike of schedules. These two personality types are both laidback, with a penchant for quick wit and argumentative banter. However, INTPs are much more theoretical and introspective than ESTPs. They’re more likely to consider the pros and cons of their actions, and they may even hesitate to act so they can spend more time thinking. This is contrary to what ESTPs do. They would rather get things moving as quickly as possible, and they can swoop in and out of activities depending on what captures their interest. ESTPs are in search of what is thrilling, and they find this mostly through experiences in the present moment.
Thought is Dominant for INTPs, while sensation and action come first for ESTPs. As a result, INTPs are much more patient with playful discussions that don’t come to a concrete conclusion. ESTPs can get frustrated with this since they’re mainly interested in practical applications.
INTP vs ESFP
The ESFP personality type (also known as the Entertainer) sees life as an adventure. They’re fun-loving, curious, and original, and there’s nothing they enjoy more than having a good time with their friends. As social butterflies, ESFPs enjoy being the center of attention. Since Extroverted Sensing is their dominant function, they like taking action and experiencing life viscerally through their five senses rather than being stuck in their heads. They’re also creative and willing to break the mold, with a strong aversion to routine. At the same time, ESFPs can be very emotional people. They ultimately follow their hearts, and they can make empathetic and caring friends.
With only one Preference in common, INTPs and ESFPs usually have highly contrasting personalities. INTPs may be happy to talk about their interests, but they don’t seek out other people to the extent that ESFPs do. ESFPs feel recharged by socializing and being in the spotlight – both of which can be very draining for the INTP personality. In fact, INTPs tend to steer away from the spotlight, and they’re more inclined to get to know a few like-minded friends rather than constantly expanding their social circle. They lean more towards solitary, mentally oriented hobbies, while ESFPs like joining parties and other high-energy events.
ESFPs live in the moment, and they’re very much grounded in their senses. They’re usually good at striking up small talk with strangers, often keeping track of trends and chatting about day-to-day topics. In comparison, INTPs are more speculative and philosophical. They aren’t concerned about what’s happening currently as much as what could be, and they’re usually lost in thought. While they aren’t always attentive to their surroundings, they excel in complex analysis, which isn’t as appealing to ESFPs.
INTP vs ISTP
The ISTP personality type (also known as The Tinkerer) is curious, analytical, and spontaneous, with a penchant for working with their hands. It’s common for ISTPs to have an aptitude for mechanics. These people enjoy deconstructing things to see how they work and then putting them back together again. Guided by Introverted Thinking, they’re skilled problem-solvers with an analytical approach to life. Because they go with the flow, they usually have a laid back, quiet demeanor. At the same time, they’re fast to act, adapting well even to high-risk situations. Ultimately, ISTPs have an individualistic streak, and they need the space and freedom to do their own thing.
Among the SP (Sensory-Perceiving) group of personality types, ISTPs are the easiest to mistype with INTPs. These two personality types both take pride in being detached and unbiased. Both can grasp complex systems quickly, determining how each part relates to the whole and building thorough mental models.
However, ISTPs are Sensors, while INTPs are Intuitives. ISTPs’ problem-solving skills are more geared towards what they can see and touch, which is why many of them have an aptitude for mechanics. Their knowledge is oriented towards the practical – they want to learn information that can be useful in a tangible way. Because they’re attuned to immediate details in their environment, they’re more impulsive and fast-acting.
Unlike ISTPs, INTPs value ideas for their own sake, often engaging in creative thought experiments that aren’t bound by practicality. They may have a wide range of knowledge about various topics, and they would rather deconstruct ideas in their head instead of working with their hands.
INTP vs ISFP
The ISFP personality type (also known as The Adventurer) is gentle, open-minded, and passionate. They draw inspiration from new experiences, and they’re sensitive to the physical details and nuances of their surroundings. In fact, ISFPs are so-called practical dreamers. They’re in touch with their imagination, but they’re also firmly grounded in the here and now. Their curiosity and strong aesthetic sense are typically expressed through tangible creative projects. With Introverted Feeling as their main cognitive function, they’re guided by their inner values and a desire to be authentic. Quiet and low-key on the outside, ISFPs have a “live and let live” philosophy that makes them relaxing to be around.
INTPs can be similar to ISFPs in that both personality types are strongly imaginative and offbeat. Like ISFPs, INTPs dislike being boxed in and need a great deal of freedom to do things their own way. Still, these two types have completely opposite cognitive functions. INTPs have Introverted Thinking as their dominant function, and they’re constantly trying to understand how the world works on a rational level. Their instinctive approach is to break concepts down objectively. ISFPs lead with Introverted Feeling, which means that they prioritize their individual feelings and beliefs. Instead of looking for objective truth, ISFPs are more concerned with responding authentically based on their feelings.
Because of their dominant functions, INTPs get frustrated with illogical thinking, while ISFPs dislike insensitivity and perceived fakeness. Notably, the two types also crave different types of stimulation. INTPs connect with people through exchanging ideas, and they want to be intellectually challenged. ISFPs love indulging their senses and experimenting with aesthetics.
INTPs vs NT Temperament Types
NT temperament types (ENTJ, ENTP, INTJ, and INTP) are driven by the Intuition and Perceiving preferences. These personality types are very intelligent, determined, and independent. They are driven by their desire to master as much knowledge as possible and may be considered high-achievers. They value reason and logic, and they have a low tolerance for people who can’t keep up with their intellectual wit. Because INTPs are part of the NT temperament type, mistypings can happen frequently.
INTP vs ENTJ
The ENTJ personality type (also known as The General) is a natural-born leader who’s decisive, rational, and charismatic. Motivated by accomplishment, ENTJs can take a larger-than-life vision and break it down into its necessary steps. They will then waste no time in executing their plans, using their strategic thinking and sharp rationality to find the most efficient path possible. Friendly and energetic, they have an inspiring presence, and they’re excellent at marshalling and directing people. Because their Dominant cognitive function is Extroverted Thinking, they instinctively organize resources and delegate when they implement their plans. Challenges invigorate them, and they set a high bar for themselves as well as others.
ENTJs and INTPs are both part of the Intuitive-Thinking (NT) group of personality types. Both have a rational mode of thought, and they naturally deal with issues through problem-solving with minimal emotional involvement. Still, INTPs aren’t as domineering as ENTJs. Instead of seeking to direct or manage people, INTPs would rather mind their own business and do tasks on their own. They aren’t looking to lead or follow – they’re natural individualists.
When we compare the two types, INTPs want to do things at their own pace, with less external pressure. ENTJs form long-range plans and assign specific targets, but INTPs would rather adapt to whatever comes up. Long-range plans can actually feel stifling rather than reassuring for INTPs, who are more comfortable with changing direction at any moment. Furthermore, while ENTJs have firm convictions, INTPs are more flexible with their assumptions, and they’re always willing to consider new information. This can make the INTP personality more prone to being indecisive and postponing action, but it also means that they’re more open-minded, with an easygoing attitude towards other people.
INTP vs ENTP
The ENTP personality type (also known as The Debater) is quick-witted, unconventional, and enthusiastic. ENTPs are guided by the cognitive function of Extroverted Intuition, which forges connections between seemingly unrelated concepts and fields. On a never-ending quest to understand the world, they love playing with ideas, questioning assumptions, and coming up with unusual perspectives. Charming and confident, ENTPs can be very entertaining conversationalists. They take pleasure in striking up debates and playing devil’s advocate. However, they don’t always take the stances they argue for seriously, instead engaging in debate for fun. Beyond debating, they’re non-judgmental and happy to let people make their own decisions, even though ENTPs will still be brutally honest. New ways of thinking appeal to them.
Even though INTPs and ENTPs only differ in one preference, this difference has a huge effect on their personalities. As extroverts, ENTPs like brainstorming out loud and sharing their ideas as soon as they come up. They’re more likely to present theories that they haven’t thought out thoroughly yet. INTPs do engage in debates, but they usually only verbalize their ideas once they’ve reflected on their own. It can take them longer to develop a theory because they want to fully test and analyze the situation first. When they’re deep in thought, INTPs want to be alone so they won’t be interrupted.
In terms of energy levels, ENTPs are more talkative and sociable. They’re also more easily bored and prone to changing their minds once they lose interest. On the other hand, INTPs come across as private and reserved, with their lighthearted side emerging only around close friends. Although their energy levels are lower, it’s easier for them to switch off distractions and focus, compared to ENTPs.
INTP vs INTJ
The INTJ personality type (also known as The Mastermind) is private, analytical, and perfectionistic, with a talent for predicting logical outcomes. They are drawn to intellectually challenging environments where they can solve problems and improve existing systems on their own. Self-assured and independent, INTJs are single-minded when they have a specific purpose. Guided by Introverted Intuition, they are gifted with a rational yet creative mind that can easily interpret meaning from patterns. Because they pragmatically assess everything through the lens of data or effectiveness, they aren’t easily swayed by authority, emotion, or convention. INTJs are confident in their abilities, and they thrive on discipline and knowledge.
INTPs and INTJs may easily get mistaken for each other at first glance. Both types seem aloof, highly logical, and solution-oriented, and they both have a love for pursuing knowledge. One way to tell them apart is by looking at the one Preference that they don’t share: INTPs are Perceivers, while INTJs are Judgers. As Perceivers, INTPs are comfortable with improvising and remaining open-ended. They can adapt well to new situations, but they may struggle with making decisions because they’re tempted to go through every option. INTJs, as Judgers, are the opposite. They’re structured and organized, with a talent for strategizing and considering likely scenarios in advance. Although they’re often efficient and productive, they can get stuck in a rut when their plans fall through.
This difference in Judging and Perceiving preferences also applies to how the two types process information. INTPs appreciate theory for its own sake, and they can keep playing around with ideas without having to reach a definitive conclusion. INTJs have a theoretical bent too, but they mostly pursue ideas with a goal in mind – and once that goal is reached, they swiftly move on.
INTPs and NF Temperament Types
NF temperament types (ENFP, ENFJ, INFP, and INFJ) are driven by the Intuition and Feeling preferences. These personality types are empathetic and generous, and they dwell more deeply on their emotions than other personality types. One of their biggest aspirations is to know themselves better and be accepted for who they are. They are good at sensing and identifying the feelings of those around them and are very caring individuals. NF types possess a natural idealism and a unique perception of the world, and INTPs see eye-to-eye with these types when it comes to their shared curiosity and imaginative ideas. However, the NF preference for following heart over head doesn’t particularly appeal to INTPs.
INTP vs ENFJ
The ENFJ personality type (also known as The Guide) is passionate, driven, and deeply caring. They feel called to make altruistic contributions to the world, and they see the potential in people. Because of their inspiring vision and idealism, they may end up as leaders who can bring others together for a common cause. They are guided by Extroverted Feeling, which means that other people’s feelings and needs resonate strongly with them. Sensitive and affectionate, ENFJs take a holistic view when making decisions, and they deftly adjust their communication based on their audience. Aside from being willing to stand up for their ideals and beliefs, they’re also action-oriented people who will work hard to generate positive changes.
INTPs and ENFJs diverge in how they relate to emotions. For ENFJs, emotions are paramount. They have a heightened awareness of what people around them are feeling, and they can adjust quickly to different social situations. They can also be very expressive, drawing their energy from relating with others in meaningful ways. It’s the opposite with INTPs; they naturally step back from their emotions so they can evaluate issues and situations using critical thinking. They’re private and outwardly calm, and grappling with concepts is what energizes them.
INTPs also generally block out significant amounts of free time in order to pursue their interests on their own. In contrast, ENFJs have a greater need for socializing, so they’re likely to fill their calendars with activities involving other people. ENFJs also look organized from the outside, often making plans for their long-term goals. However, INTPs are more organized internally, with a mental system that’s constantly classifying and dissecting information.
INTP vs ENFP
The ENFP type (also known as The Optimist) is free-spirited, energetic, and open-minded, with an enthusiasm for life that’s contagious. ENFPs want to experience the full spectrum of life, and they look for inspiration, novelty, and meaning. With Extroverted Intuition as their dominant cognitive function, they tend to discover patterns and links between ideas, people, and events. For ENFPs, everything is interconnected. Emotional yet accepting, ENFPs appreciate the complexity of their fellow human beings, and they enjoy having a good time with people as well as getting to know them in depth. They are advocates of individuality and self-expression, believing that everyone must follow their own path in life.
ENFPs trust their personal feelings much more than INTPs do. INTPs are generally very absorbed in their thoughts, and they default to impersonal analysis, trying to deduce the most logical and efficient solution to problems. On the other hand, emotions are very much part of ENFPs’ decision-making – in fact, if they don’t feel something, it’s not worth it to them. ENFPs are also much more at ease with other people’s emotions than INTPs are. It’s possible for INTPs to become well-versed in psychology, but they look at it from a more analytical perspective rather than being naturally perceptive of others’ feelings.
Still, INTPs and ENFPs both have well-developed Extroverted Intuition, which allows them to see theoretical possibilities and connect seemingly unrelated ideas. Although both are creative thinkers, ENFPs are more quickly distracted and impulsive than INTPs. ENFPs are also much more idealistic, sometimes getting carried away, while INTPs aim to perceive reality as neutrally as possible and keep a clear head at all times. Finally, INTPs have a more subdued presence than ENFPs.
INTP vs INFJ
The INFJ personality type (also known as The Sage) is principled, insightful, and sensitive. Their profound sense of idealism makes them disturbed by injustice. Because they’re compelled to find a personal mission that goes beyond day-to-day living, they often put their energy into helping others, rather than working for their own gain. Guided by Introverted Intuition as their main cognitive function, INFJs have a complex, nuanced perspective on the world. They can have surprisingly accurate insights that come out of nowhere, especially when it comes to other people’s motivations and feelings. Emotional intimacy is a need for them, but they also need plenty of alone time to recharge.
INTPs and INFJs share certain qualities, such as being very abstract, metaphorical, and reflective. Many INTPs mistype as INFJs because INFJs are the most rational out of the Intuitive-Feeling (NF) personality types. INFJs are ultimately Feelers at heart, though. They’re easily affected by their emotional environment, and they take great pains to not hurt others’ feelings, sometimes even at their own expense. In contrast, INTPs don’t care what others think, and they’re much more interested in systems and machines than emotion. For them, being honest and logical is more important than pleasing people.
Both personality types can be very private, but INFJs want meaningful connections where they can communicate their deepest thoughts and feelings. INTPs are less inclined to do this; in fact, they experience intimacy through intellectual connections. These two personality types also use their Intuition Preference in different ways. INFJs are convergent thinkers who synthesize information and get sudden, intuitive hits, while INTPs are divergent thinkers who create new, innovative combinations from existing information.
INTP vs INFP
The INFP personality type (also known as The Mediator) is reserved, imaginative, and intensely emotional. INFPs are among the most idealistic of the 16 personality types, and they’re much more enchanted with what could be rather than what is. Guided by Introverted Feeling as their Dominant cognitive function, INFPs are very aware of their own emotions and personal values. They’re on a lifelong search for meaning and authenticity, crafting a unique life philosophy rather than conforming to expectations. Despite seeming private and distant from afar, they feel everything deeply. They tend to reveal their colorful inner life only to people that they’re close to or through creating works of art.
INTPs have nearly the same set of preferences as INFPs. Mistypings can be very common, with some people even wondering if they’re INTP-INFP hybrids. Still, INTPs are known as The Logicians, while INFPs are referred to as the most emotional type out of all personalities. INTPs want to understand the world rationally, and logical inconsistency and imprecision can be glaring for them. They revel in exploring concepts in depth and working with data. The downside is that they may neglect and ignore their emotions. INFPs have the opposite problem. They’re very much in touch with their own emotions, but detached problem-solving can be difficult for them since they tend to see everything from a personal perspective.
Because of this, they have their own ways of channeling their Extroverted Intuition, which is the Auxiliary function for both of these personality types. INTPs gather theoretical, systematic knowledge. Their Extroverted Intuition helps them to create various mental models and imagine how these apply to specific examples. In comparison, INFPs gather knowledge about human nature. They use Extroverted Intuition to see the potential in people and to derive personal meaning from countless events.
As you can see, INTPs have unique personality traits compared to other personality types, and they’re mainly drawn to like-minded people. Although INTPs may gravitate towards personality types that are similar to them, other types can balance them out more and help them expand their perspective. We have the perfect article if you want to learn more about the potential relationships that INTPs can have with each personality type (in terms of a romantic relationship, friendship, and workplace relationship)