Intelligence testing is used to assess the all around effectiveness of an individual's mental processes, especially understanding, reasoning, and the ability to recall information. Tests exist that are appropriate for both children and adults. The use of standardized tests to produce a numerical value for these abilities is a very popular tool among educators. Correctly administered, some intelligence tests can also detect learning impairments. The Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale and the Wechsler Intelligence Scales are the two most widely used standardized intelligence tests. Other tests are available that attempt to quantify areas such as creativity, personality, and ability or aptitude to perform specific tasks. Many employers, from police departments to the National Football League, use some form of standardized intelligence testing to evaluate job applicants.

The Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale

Alfred Binet (1857-1911) was a French psychologist who was interested in the study of thinking and mental processes...