What is an INTJ?

INTJ is one of sixteen personality types codified in research by Carl Jung and Isabel Briggs Myers.


The four letters are shorthand for Introvert-iNtutive-Thinking-Judging, the four psychological preferences dominant in individuals with the INTJ type. INTJ is a relatively rare personality type; only about 2% of individuals in the population are INTJ.

INTJs are strategists and problem solvers by nature. INTJs naturally deconstruct complex problems, analyze alternatives, and seek elegant, optimized solutions. INTJs have a talent for understanding complex systems very quickly, which makes them natural consultants; they can quickly grasp the key elements of a new business model, organization, product or strategy, then improve on it.

Many INTJs gravitate toward careers where they can independently pursue their passions and vision: scientists, architects, engineers, researchers, analysts, strategic planners.

You don’t have to be an INTJ to be a good strategist, or a visionary leader. But INTJs excel at being able to jump into these roles very quickly, bringing a fresh perspective and a passion to solve problems, before moving on to the next challenge.

You can learn more about personality types, theory behind it, and find your own type, at 16personalities.com.

More fun MBTI resources are here.