An example of an intelligence test is the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), one of the most widely used tools in psychology and education. The WAIS measures different aspects of intelligence through a variety of subtests grouped into four main areas: verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. Verbal comprehension evaluates understanding of language, vocabulary, and general knowledge, while perceptual reasoning assesses problem-solving and spatial reasoning. Working memory tests the ability to hold and manipulate information, and processing speed measures how quickly and accurately simple cognitive tasks can be performed. These subtests generate scores that contribute to the overall Full Scale IQ (FSIQ), which provides an estimate of general intellectual ability.

The strengths of the WAIS lie in its comprehensiveness and reliability. It captures a broad range of cognitive abilities, is standardized on large populations, and is useful in diagnosing learning disabilities, cognitive impairments, or giftedness. It also has practical applications in education, counseling, and clinical interventions. However, the test has notable weaknesses. It may reflect cultural bias, as some tasks rely on language or cultural knowledge, and it defines intelligence in a narrow sense, emphasizing analytical and cognitive skills while overlooking creativity, emotional intelligence, and practical problem-solving. Additionally, test results can be influenced by test anxiety, fatigue, or external factors, and since it offers only a snapshot of performance at a single point in time, it does not necessarily capture an individual’s full potential or adaptability. Overall, the WAIS is a respected and useful assessment tool, but it is best interpreted alongside other measures to provide a more holistic understanding of intelligence.