The Briggs and Meyer Test is one of the most well-known personality assessments in the world. Based on the psychological theories of Carl Jung and developed by Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter Isabel Briggs Myers, this test helps individuals identify their unique personality type. It provides deep insight into how people think, make decisions, and interact with others — making it a valuable tool for both personal growth and professional development.

Whether you’re exploring career options, improving relationships, or seeking greater self-awareness, the Briggs and Meyer Test can help you understand your natural preferences and strengths.

What Is the Briggs and Meyer Test?

The Briggs and Meyer Test, officially known as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), is a psychological tool designed to classify people into one of 16 personality types. These types are determined by how individuals perceive the world and make decisions. Each personality type is represented by a four-letter code that combines specific traits and preferences.

For example, someone might be identified as INTJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging) or ESFP (Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving). The test aims to show how different people approach life, relationships, and work — highlighting that no single personality type is better than another, just different.

The Four Personality Dimensions in the Briggs and Meyer Test

The Briggs and Meyer Test uses four key dimensions to determine personality type. Each dimension represents a set of opposite traits that describe how people prefer to interact with the world.

1. Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)

This dimension measures where you focus your energy and how you recharge:

  • Extraversion (E): You draw energy from social interaction and enjoy being around people.
  • Introversion (I): You feel most comfortable in quiet environments and recharge through solitude.

2. Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)

This trait reflects how you prefer to take in and process information:

  • Sensing (S): You focus on concrete facts and practical details.
  • Intuition (N): You are drawn to abstract ideas, concepts, and possibilities.

3. Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)

This scale determines how you make decisions and evaluate information:

  • Thinking (T): You prioritize logic, fairness, and objectivity when making decisions.
  • Feeling (F): You base decisions on empathy, harmony, and personal values.

4. Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)

This final dimension explores how you approach organization and planning:

  • Judging (J): You prefer structure, schedules, and planning ahead.
  • Perceiving (P): You enjoy flexibility, spontaneity, and adapting to change.

By combining these four preferences, the Briggs and Meyer Test identifies your personality type — for example, ENFP (enthusiastic and creative) or ISTJ (practical and responsible).

The 16 Personality Types in the Briggs and Meyer Test

Here’s an overview of the 16 personality types defined by the Briggs and Meyer Test:

  • ISTJ – The Inspector: Responsible, logical, and organized.
  • ISFJ – The Protector: Caring, loyal, and dependable.
  • INFJ – The Advocate: Insightful, idealistic, and empathetic.
  • INTJ – The Strategist: Independent, analytical, and visionary.
  • ISTP – The Crafter: Practical, resourceful, and action-oriented.
  • ISFP – The Artist: Kind, creative, and flexible.
  • INFP – The Idealist: Compassionate, imaginative, and authentic.
  • INTP – The Thinker: Curious, logical, and analytical.
  • ESTP – The Dynamo: Energetic, adaptable, and confident.
  • ESFP – The Entertainer: Fun-loving, spontaneous, and warm-hearted.
  • ENFP – The Campaigner: Enthusiastic, creative, and open-minded.
  • ENTP – The Debater: Inventive, outspoken, and intellectually curious.
  • ESTJ – The Executive: Efficient, organized, and responsible.
  • ESFJ – The Caregiver: Friendly, empathetic, and dependable.
  • ENFJ – The Protagonist: Charismatic, supportive, and inspiring.
  • ENTJ – The Commander: Assertive, strategic, and confident.

Each of these 16 types represents a different combination of traits that influence how you perceive, decide, and interact with others.

Why Take the Briggs and Meyer Test?

The Briggs and Meyer Test is more than just a personality quiz — it’s a tool for personal discovery. By understanding your personality type, you can make better decisions about your relationships, career path, and lifestyle. Here are some key benefits of taking the test:

  • Self-awareness: Learn about your core motivations, communication style, and emotional needs.
  • Career guidance: Discover the types of jobs and work environments that best suit your personality.
  • Improved relationships: Understand how to connect and communicate effectively with others.
  • Personal growth: Recognize your strengths and work on areas for development.
  • Team performance: Build stronger collaboration by appreciating different working styles.

How the Briggs and Meyer Test Works

The Briggs and Meyer Test is a questionnaire-based assessment that presents a series of statements about your preferences, thoughts, and behaviors. You choose the answers that feel most natural to you, and your responses are used to determine your four-letter personality type.

The test is not designed to measure intelligence, mental health, or skills. Instead, it highlights preferences — showing how you’re naturally inclined to act and think. There are no “right” or “wrong” results, as every personality type brings unique strengths and value.

Applications of the Briggs and Meyer Test

The Briggs and Meyer Test is used worldwide across education, business, and psychology. Common applications include:

  • Career coaching: Identifying roles that align with personality strengths.
  • Leadership development: Enhancing management and decision-making skills.
  • Team building: Improving group dynamics and collaboration.
  • Education: Helping students understand their learning styles.
  • Personal growth: Encouraging mindfulness and emotional intelligence.

Understanding Your Briggs and Meyer Type

Each Briggs and Meyer personality type comes with its own strengths, challenges, and natural preferences. For example:

  • Introverts (I): Prefer deep conversations and quiet reflection.
  • Extraverts (E): Enjoy active discussions and social interaction.
  • Thinkers (T): Value rational decisions and clear reasoning.
  • Feelers (F): Focus on empathy and emotional harmony.

By recognizing these traits in yourself and others, you can improve both your self-awareness and your interpersonal relationships.

Final Thoughts

The Briggs and Meyer Test offers an insightful look into your personality and the way you approach life. Understanding your type can help you navigate challenges, choose fulfilling career paths, and build stronger connections with others. While personality types aren’t meant to define you completely, they serve as a useful framework for exploring your behavior and unlocking your full potential.

Whether you’re looking to grow personally or professionally, the Briggs and Meyer Test provides a valuable foundation for lifelong self-discovery and development.

Keywords: briggs and meyer test, personality types, myers briggs test, self-awareness, 16 personalities, personality psychology, mbti test, personal growth.