INTPs, also reffered to as The Logicians or The Engineers, have their own unique set of personality traits. They’re considered to be very theoretical, inventive, and individualistic, with a dislike for routine and rules.
But what exactly makes them the way they are? We need to delve deeper than a list of adjectives to find out why INTPs have unique needs and to discover what drives their lifelong curiosity and passion for objectivity.
Many of these INTP characteristics arise from their specific combination of preferences and cognitive functions. This article will present a comprehensive portrait of the INTP type, starting with a snapshot of their personality. From there, we’ll explain what preferences and cognitive functions are, and what they mean in the context of INTPs. You will also read about the INTP type’s strengths and weaknesses, along with any potential differences between the INTP male and female.
Page Contents
INTP Meaning
The INTP personality type is known as The Logician because rational analysis is their primary way of making sense of the world. As big-picture thinkers and innovators, INTPs are drawn to generating novel solutions, grappling with abstract theories, and delving into different possibilities. At the same time, they can be very easygoing and candid around other people. Since they don’t look to conform to social norms, they have a fascinating, thoughtful perspective, and they subject everything – even closely held beliefs – to logical scrutiny. Low-key and private, INTPs typically want to keep their external lives simple, and they can be laidback friends and partners.
Because of their Introversion preference, INTPs direct their energy inwards, requiring plenty of time alone so they can reflect and recharge. Because of their Intuitive preference, they are more attuned to concepts, symbols, and patterns rather than sensory details. When making decisions, they put facts and logic first thanks to their Thinking preference, and they try to remain unbiased instead of allowing their emotions to affect them. Finally, as Perceiving types, they’re spontaneous people who prefer adapting to whatever happens over making rigid plans.
What makes INTPs behave the way they do? In this article, we’ll get to know this personality type better by exploring their unique personality traits, as well as the preferences and cognitive functions underlying these traits. Going beyond surface behavior, we’ll look at what makes them tick from the inside, including the most common values and thought processes for this personality type.
INTP Preferences
Personality is a complex topic, but luckily, the 16 personalities theory has made it easier to understand by coming up with four pairs of preferences. Every person leans towards one preference per pair. The four letters of each personality type stand for these preferences. When summed up, these paint a revealing image of each personality type. The eight preferences are:
- Extraversion vs Introversion — This describes how people recharge their energy — either through social interaction or through being on their own.
- Sensing vs Intuition — This describes how people receive and process new information — either pragmatically or imaginatively.
- Thinking vs Feeling — This describes how people make decisions — either based on logic and rationality or based on subjective feelings.
- Judging vs Perceiving — This describes people’s approach to the outside world — either in a structured or more flexible manner.
The INTP personality has the Introversion, Intuition, Thinking, and Perceiving preferences. Let’s take a closer look at what each of these mean and how they shape this personality type’s character.
Introversion
Introverted personality types are focused inwards, and they gain energy from spending time alone. Too much social interaction can be exhausting for them. They value depth over breadth in their relationships, so they may form a few close relationships instead of constantly expanding their social circles. When they’re around people, they are also more comfortable being in smaller groups or having one-on-one conversations. Since they process information internally, introverts are generally more cautious and reflective. They can also be great listeners who take the time to absorb what other people are saying before responding.
Here is a summary of prominent Introversion traits:
- Energized by solitude
- Private and independent
- More comfortable in smaller groups
- Quiet
- Internally aware and reflective
- Likely to listen carefully
- Leans towards activities they can do on their own
Intuition
Intuitive personality types are keenly aware of future possibilities. Instead of sticking with the bare facts of the situation, they’re constantly asking “what could be?” and “what if?” Intuitives are primarily interested in abstract concepts, and they read between the lines by looking for meanings and patterns. New ideas inspire them. Instead of following tradition or trusting what they’ve experienced before, they’re more inclined to come up with imaginative ways of doing things. Intuitive types see the big picture better than the details. Their conversational style tends to be roundabout, with frequent use of symbols and metaphors as well as seemingly random associations.
Here is a summary of prominent Intuition traits:
- Future-focused
- See deeper connections and possibilities
- Inventive and imaginative
- Good at generating unorthodox ideas
- Abstract thinker
- Idealistic
Thinking
Thinking personality types make decisions based on facts and logic. They value being objective, following their head rather than their heart. Although Thinking types can have equally strong emotions as Feeling types, Thinking types typically set emotion aside so they can make unbiased assessments. They’re oriented towards problem-solving, and they have a keen eye for inconsistencies. When choosing a course of action, they remain level-headed, gathering information first and then breaking it down into pros and cons. As a result, solutions that they propose are often well thought out. Fairness is also important for Thinking types, and they prioritize being direct and honest over being tactful.
Here is a summary of prominent Thinking traits:
- Rational and objective
- Follow their head rather than their heart
- Want truth
- Look for logical explanations
- Firm with people
- Value honesty over tact
Perceiving
Perceiving personality types are adaptable and flexible. They react to changing situations on the spot, preferring to keep plans to a minimum. Instead of feeling driven to organize their environment, Perceiving types would rather go with the flow and welcome the unexpected. Routine can be monotonous for them, and they tend to do things at their own pace, working in bursts of energy. They thrive in unstructured environments where they can juggle several different tasks at once and encounter a lot of variety. Perceiving types are generally better at starting projects rather than following through. Spontaneous and relaxed, they are constantly receptive to new information.
Here is a summary of prominent Perceiving traits:
- Spontaneous and carefree
- Dislike structure and rules
- Keep options open
- Adaptable and flexible
- Enjoy variety
- Prone to changing their minds
INTP Cognitive Functions
In the personality type theory, there are eight cognitive functions, with each function being expressed in either an extroverted or introverted way. Out of these eight, each personality type has four cognitive functions that they’re the most aware of. These are arranged in a hierarchy based on how strongly the personality type uses each function. The first two cognitive functions are considered dominant, appearing as strengths of the personality type. In contrast, the third and fourth cognitive functions are weaker, and they take a long time to develop.
The INTP function stack looks like this:
- Introverted Thinking (Ti)
- Extraverted Intuition (Ne)
- Introverted Sensing (Si)
- Extraverted Feeling (Fe)
Below, we will look at the INTP’s cognitive functions and analyze the effects of each:
Primary Function: Introverted Thinking
Introverted Thinking (or Ti as abbreviated) is a cognitive function connected to the way a person makes their judgment. This function is concerned with finding objective truth through logical analysis. It desires to understand concepts and systems thoroughly, breaking them down into smaller components and examining them from all angles. Personality types who use this function prominently have a mental framework of the world that they’re consistently refining and updating based on new information. For Introverted Thinking (Ti) users, everything is interrelated – and there can be no logical gaps in their framework. Overall, they’re skilled at troubleshooting and devising efficient solutions.
INTPs have Introverted Thinking as their primary function, so it’s extremely instinctive for them. Out of all the personality types, INTPs are the most objective and cerebral. They can dissect ideas with great precision and accuracy, seeking out the underlying principles right away. It may take them longer to process information because they’re also evaluating what it means for their overall understanding of the world. However, once they do reach a logical conclusion, it will be extremely in-depth. INTPs are often avid learners with constantly active minds, and they typically have plenty of knowledge and expertise in their fields of interest.
Secondary Function: Extraverted Intuition
Extraverted Intuition (or Ne as abbreviated) is a cognitive function connected to gathering information. This function delights in discovering new concepts, forging connections between seemingly unrelated topics, and exploring possibilities. Types that rely strongly on Extraverted Intuition (including INTPs) are ultimately big picture thinkers. Although their heads may seem to be in the clouds, they have intriguing thought processes that yield creative insights. Idea generation is a major strength of Extraverted Intuition, which is attracted to the innovative and the unconventional. In fact, Extraverted Intuition craves novelty – not in terms of physical experiences or environments but in terms of ideas.
For INTPs, Extraverted Intuition is their secondary function. It’s not as easy to use as their dominant function (Ti), but they’re still very proficient in it, and they can call upon it depending on the situation. Although INTPs look at everything through the lens of logic, they are extremely open-minded. As long as a concept makes sense logically, they’re willing to consider it, even if it contradicts established systems or social norms. INTPs’ curiosity is wide-ranging, and they have countless theories about different subjects. Conversationally, they can jump from idea to idea quickly, even drifting off into playful tangents.
Tertiary Function: Introverted Sensing
Introverted Sensing (or Si as abbreviated) is a cognitive function connected to how a person interacts with their environment. Instead of basking in the experiences of the present moment, Introverted Sensing catalogs experiences meticulously and compares them to what has happened before. This results in an organized internal library of knowledge, sensations, and memories. Since present experiences are instinctively associated with those from the past, Introverted Sensing can produce systematic judgments quickly. It’s extremely detail-oriented, honing in on inconsistencies and inaccuracies in a snap. On top of this, it has a vivid recall of the past, with the capacity to relive memories as if they were actually happening.
Introverted Sensing ranks as INTPs’ tertiary function, so it doesn’t come as naturally to them and it only matures later on. Because INTPs are more concentrated on abstract theories rather than what’s happening externally, their Introverted Sensing shows through in how they automatically compartmentalize what they learn. Although they can seem chaotic on the outside, INTPs actually have a very structured internal world, where concepts are organized and categorized in great detail. This makes INTPs rigorous, precise thinkers who constantly refer back to what they already know. When they’re under emotional stress, INTPs can also indulge in nostalgia, ruminating in the past and dredging up all of the feelings related to their memories.
Inferior Function: Extraverted Feeling
Extraverted Feeling (or Fe as abbreviated) is a cognitive function connected to the individual’s decision-making process. Its main concern is group harmony, and it always gauges the effects of actions on other people’s emotions and wellbeing. On top of this, Extraverted Feeling takes cultural and social values into account. It’s the function that’s responsible for the desire to connect with others and fit in. Extraverted Feeling can be sensitive to the ambience of a room as well as body language cues from people. Those with high Extraverted Feeling can sense other’s needs instinctively and adapt their behavior to varied social situations with ease.
Because Extraverted Feeling is INTPs’ inferior function, this can be a very frustrating area for them. Inferior functions are a source of struggle and a blind spot for any personality type, and it takes significant effort to learn how to use them properly. INTPs aren’t naturally attuned to either their own emotions or those of others. Compared to other personality types, emotions can feel sudden and terrifying for INTPs, especially since they can’t always be tamed by rationality. Aside from their difficulties with emotion, situations where INTPs constantly have to deal with a lot of people can drain their energy quickly.
INTP Strengths and Weaknesses
After going through INTPs’ preferences and cognitive functions, you probably already have a good idea of what INTPs are like. You’ve seen how they’re relaxed, curious, and intellectually inclined people who can be deeply enthusiastic about their interests. While their reasoning skills and out-of-the-box thinking are admirable, there are other areas where they can find themselves lacking. But which exactly?
To fully comprehend The Logician personality type, we think it’s important to be aware of the common strengths and weaknesses of INTPs. This is why we’ve made a small summary of both below, listing the most prominent traits that INTPs have in each category.
INTP Strengths
Analytical
INTPs have a knack for analytical problem-solving, with the capacity to take in vast amounts of information and find the thread that ties it all together. They can drill down complex concepts like no other type. For INTPs, logic is paramount, and they apply it to nearly everything they do, from dealing with everyday tasks to figuring out what they want to do with their lives. Since they have an unparalleled ability to step back from their emotions as well as social expectations and pressures, they can quickly get to the heart of problems.
Ingenious
As much as INTPs stand by rationality, they can also be extremely ingenious. On top of their penchant for critical thinking, INTPs take into account numerous perspectives and possibilities, which allows them to view problems from original angles. INTPs have very colorful imaginations, although they’re usually content to let their imaginings brew in their heads rather than expressing them outright. Because they delve into a wide number of topics, they can combine ideas from different fields in unpredictable ways. As a result, they rarely ever feel bored when they’re alone.
Fiercely independent
INTPs’ free-spiritedness and their drive to be independent show up in various aspects of their lives. At work, they typically prefer working alone, and they default to self-learning, often finding helpful resources for themselves. Similarly, in their close relationships, they’re likely to be low-maintenance and undemanding, letting the other person be themselves instead of imposing expectations. They also strive to be as independent as possible in their own thinking. INTPs are willing to be skeptical about everything, even their own beliefs; they never stop trying to root out biases in themselves.
Laidback and easygoing
INTPs live life at their own pace. While their standards for personal competence can be very high, they have a laid back attitude when it comes to personal matters. As one of the most open-minded personality types, INTPs can be receptive to offbeat ideas and lifestyles. They don’t attach much meaning to tradition, which they can see as arbitrary. They’re also individualistic, choosing to mind their own business rather than trying to control others. Ultimately, INTPs don’t want to stress themselves out too much, and they’re constantly looking for ways to conserve their energy.
Candid
Candidness is a major hallmark of the INTP personality type. INTPs choose the most precise language to convey what they’re thinking, and their statements are usually direct and to the point, without any hidden meanings. As truth-seekers, INTPs emphasize being honest. Forms of manipulation like mind games or insincere flattery aren’t their style. Instead, if they have an issue, they’ll state it concisely while remaining calm and reasonable. In return, they’re also very accepting of objective criticism about themselves, and it’s rare for them to be offended by others.
INTP Weaknesses
Impractical
Because they’re so preoccupied with their thoughts, INTPs may be less aware of their surroundings, which gives them an absent-minded air. They can also easily lose track of time when they’re absorbed in a project, occasionally forgetting to do basic necessities such as eating or sleeping enough. Tasks such as errands and household chores can seem mundane to them, and they may procrastinate on doing these.
Uncomfortable with emotions
Feeling is the least developed function in the INTP personality. INTPs are prone to either avoiding their own emotions or trying to explain them away. Since their usual problem-solving approach doesn’t work as well with strong emotions, they may end up feeling anxious and confused – and so they would rather not deal with emotion altogether. In turn, they can be dismissive of how others feel if it seems irrational to them.
Guarded
As introverts, INTPs tend to be withdrawn and appreciative of solitude. Even so, they may be much more protective of their privacy than most. INTPs have a habit of tuning out their environment so their attention can be turned inwards, and sometimes this tuning out also applies to people. In general, INTPs don’t talk much about themselves. Even with friends they’ve known for a while, letting their guard down and being vulnerable can be extremely difficult.
Indecisive
Given their Intuitive and Perceiving preferences, INTPs can struggle with making decisions because they see too many possibilities, from changes that can happen to alternative courses of action. It’s possible for them to fall into the trap of endless information-gathering instead of taking initiative and committing. In addition, they dislike structure, and they would rather be free to change their mind at any time instead of making final decisions.
Difference in Male vs Female Personality Traits
Male and female INTPs project themselves in similar ways. However, societal norms associate classic INTP personality traits more with males. As a result, male INTPs tend to display both good and bad INTP traits more prominently, while these traits can be more subdued with females. Many female INTPs report feeling pressured to adapt themselves to what is considered more traditionally feminine. For example, women are generally expected to be Feelers, so female INTPs may develop Extraverted Feeling faster than male INTPs.
Below, we have outlined distinct traits of each INTP gender:
INTP Male
With INTP males, there’s less of a filter between how they are in public and how they are among close friends. Even among strangers, INTP males can be blunt and straightforward. They’re more likely to express their thoughts directly, whether it’s a theory they’ve been thinking about or a flaw in the other person’s reasoning. They can also appear calmer and more detached, with a more mellow presentation than female INTPs.
Here are some traits of the INTP male:
- More upfront with his Introverted Thinking (Ti)
- Tend to be more cynical than female counterparts
- Less likely to hold back what he wants to say
- Gets into debates more often and actively questions others’ ideas
- More prone to avoiding emotional conversations
INTP Female
INTP females can be harder to recognize than INTP males. They may have a stronger sense of being out of place, since INTP traits such as being reserved and valuing reason over emotion aren’t considered traditionally feminine. Typically, they’re more alert to emotional cues than their male counterparts. Since they may also be better at social mimicry, their bluntness may be reserved for close friends.
Here are some traits of the INTP female:
- May click more easily with males rather than other females
- Adapts her behavior to her social environment more often
- More likely to show her enthusiasm
- Tend to modulate what she says in public
- More prone to second-guessing her thoughts
- More likely to acknowledge and communicate how she’s feeling