What Is a Good IQ Score? Understanding the Scale

Introduction

If you’ve taken (or are thinking about taking) an IQ test, one of the first questions you’ll have is: “Is my score good?”
IQ scores aren’t like school grades — they’re measured on a statistical scale that compares you to the general population.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what IQ scores mean, how they’re calculated, what’s considered a “good” IQ score, and why context matters.

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What Is IQ?

IQ, or intelligence quotient, is a numerical measure of your cognitive abilities compared to the average person.
It’s calculated from your performance on a series of standardized tasks that measure:

  • Logical reasoning
  • Verbal comprehension
  • Working memory
  • Processing speed

Most IQ tests are designed so the average score is 100.

The IQ Score Scale

Here’s how most IQ tests classify scores:

IQ Range Classification % of Population
130+ Very Superior ~2%
120–129 Superior ~6%
110–119 High Average ~16%
90–109 Average ~50%
80–89 Low Average ~16%
70–79 Borderline ~6%
Below 70 Extremely Low ~2%

So… What Is a Good IQ Score?

There’s no single definition of “good” — it depends on your goals.

  • For general life skills: Anything between 90–109 (average) is perfectly fine.
  • For competitive academic programs: 120+ is often seen as strong.
  • For high-IQ societies (like Mensa): 130+ is typically required.

💡 Remember: IQ is not the only measure of intelligence or success. Creativity, emotional intelligence (EQ), persistence, and social skills all play major roles.

How IQ Scores Are Calculated

Most IQ tests use a bell curve distribution:

  • Average score is set to 100.
  • Scores are spread so that most people fall within one standard deviation (85–115).
  • Extreme scores (very high or low) are rare.

MindAura’s IQ test uses a scoring system aligned with professional psychological assessments, so your score is directly comparable to standard scales.

Factors That Can Affect Your IQ Score

  • Test type: Not all IQ tests measure the same skills.
  • Test conditions: Distractions, poor sleep, or stress can lower performance.
  • Preparation: Familiarity with question formats can improve results.
  • Health & lifestyle: Nutrition, hydration, and mental state play a role.

Can You Improve Your IQ Score?

While core intelligence is relatively stable, test performance can be improved:

  1. Practice with similar question types.
  2. Work on mental math, puzzles, and memory exercises.
  3. Improve focus through mindfulness and reduced distractions.

📌 For a full prep strategy, see: How to Prepare for an IQ Test: The Complete Guide.

Why Context Matters

A “good” IQ score for one person might not be the same for another:

  • If your career doesn’t require heavy analytical skills, an average score is more than enough.
  • For roles in research, engineering, or advanced academics, higher scores can give you an advantage.
  • Remember: life success isn’t determined by IQ alone.

FAQs About IQ Scores

Q: Is 110 a good IQ?
Yes — it’s above average and in the top 25% of the population.

Q: What IQ is considered “genius”?
While “genius” isn’t an official classification, scores above 140 are often labeled as such.

Q: Can a low IQ score be improved?
You can improve your test performance through practice and preparation.

Final CTA Block

✅ You now understand the IQ scale and what different scores mean.

🎯 Take the MindAura IQ Test today to see your score, your ranking, and a breakdown of your cognitive strengths.

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