The Maya Briggs Test is one of the most popular personality assessments in the world. Based on the theories of Carl Jung and developed by Katharine Cook Briggs and Isabel Briggs Myers, the test helps people understand their unique personality type. It provides deep insight into how individuals perceive the world, make decisions, and interact with others — revealing the patterns that define who we are.
Whether you’re interested in personal growth, improving your relationships, or finding the right career path, the Maya Briggs Test can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and development.
What Is the Maya Briggs Test?
The Maya Briggs Test — often referred to as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) — is a psychological questionnaire designed to categorize individuals into one of 16 personality types. These types are defined by four main dimensions that describe how people gain energy, process information, make decisions, and approach life.
Each type is represented by a combination of four letters, such as INTJ, ENFP, or ISFJ. The letters stand for specific traits that, when combined, form a unique personality profile.
The Four Dimensions of the Maya Briggs Test
The Maya Briggs Test identifies your personality through four key dimensions. Each dimension has two opposite traits, and your preferences in these areas determine your overall type.
1. Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)
This dimension measures how you focus your energy and recharge:
- Extraversion (E): You gain energy from being around people and engaging in external activities.
- Introversion (I): You recharge through solitude and reflection, preferring meaningful conversations over large groups.
2. Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)
This trait explores how you take in and interpret information:
- Sensing (S): You focus on facts, details, and what’s real or practical.
- Intuition (N): You rely on imagination, abstract ideas, and future possibilities.
3. Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)
This scale reveals how you make decisions:
- Thinking (T): You prioritize logic, fairness, and objectivity when making choices.
- Feeling (F): You make decisions based on empathy, harmony, and personal values.
4. Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)
This dimension describes your approach to structure and organization:
- Judging (J): You prefer order, schedules, and planning ahead.
- Perceiving (P): You enjoy flexibility, spontaneity, and going with the flow.
The 16 Personality Types of the Maya Briggs Test
The combination of the four preferences results in 16 unique personality types. Each type represents a specific way of thinking, behaving, and communicating.
- ISTJ – The Inspector: Responsible, practical, and dependable.
- ISFJ – The Protector: Loyal, caring, and supportive.
- INFJ – The Advocate: Insightful, idealistic, and empathetic.
- INTJ – The Strategist: Logical, independent, and visionary.
- ISTP – The Crafter: Analytical, adaptable, and action-oriented.
- ISFP – The Artist: Kind, creative, and sensitive.
- INFP – The Idealist: Compassionate, imaginative, and authentic.
- INTP – The Thinker: Curious, rational, and inventive.
- ESTP – The Dynamo: Bold, energetic, and practical.
- ESFP – The Performer: Fun-loving, outgoing, and spontaneous.
- ENFP – The Inspirer: Enthusiastic, creative, and passionate.
- ENTP – The Visionary: Innovative, outspoken, and intellectually curious.
- ESTJ – The Executive: Efficient, organized, and responsible.
- ESFJ – The Caregiver: Warm, helpful, and community-oriented.
- ENFJ – The Protagonist: Charismatic, empathetic, and inspiring.
- ENTJ – The Commander: Strategic, confident, and determined.
How the Maya Briggs Test Works
The Maya Briggs Test typically consists of a series of questions designed to measure your natural preferences in the four key areas. Each question offers two possible answers — you choose the one that best describes your behavior or mindset. After completing the test, your responses are analyzed to determine your four-letter personality type.
The test doesn’t measure intelligence or ability. Instead, it helps identify how you interact with the world, how you prefer to make decisions, and what motivates you. The results can provide valuable insight into your communication style, work habits, and personal relationships.
Benefits of Taking the Maya Briggs Test
Taking the Maya Briggs Test can lead to meaningful self-awareness and personal growth. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Self-Discovery: Understand your personality strengths, values, and motivations.
- Career Insight: Find jobs that match your natural preferences and strengths.
- Improved Relationships: Learn how to communicate effectively with different personality types.
- Personal Development: Identify areas for growth and improve emotional intelligence.
- Team Collaboration: Enhance cooperation by recognizing diverse working styles.
Understanding the Maya Briggs Personality Framework
The Maya Briggs Test is grounded in the work of psychologist Carl Jung, who believed that human behavior is shaped by innate psychological preferences. Katharine Cook Briggs and Isabel Briggs Myers expanded on his ideas to create a structured personality model that could be easily understood and applied to everyday life.
According to the Maya Briggs framework, personality is not about labeling people but about understanding how individuals perceive and interact with their environment. Each personality type brings unique strengths and perspectives that contribute to both personal and collective growth.
Common Applications of the Maya Briggs Test
The Maya Briggs Test is used across a variety of settings — from corporate organizations to schools and personal coaching sessions. Some common applications include:
- Career planning: Identifying roles that align with your personality type.
- Leadership development: Understanding management styles and decision-making preferences.
- Team building: Strengthening collaboration by balancing personality strengths.
- Relationship counseling: Improving empathy and communication between partners.
- Education: Helping students discover their learning styles and motivation patterns.
Comparing the Maya Briggs Test with Other Personality Models
The Maya Briggs Test remains one of the most widely used personality assessments worldwide. However, it’s often compared to other popular models, such as the Big Five Personality Traits or DISC Personality Test. While those models also provide valuable insights, the Maya Briggs Test stands out for its accessibility and its detailed breakdown of 16 personality types.
Its strength lies in its ability to combine both self-reflection and practical application — making it a favorite for anyone interested in psychology, leadership, or personal growth.
Final Thoughts
The Maya Briggs Test continues to inspire millions of people around the world to better understand themselves and others. By revealing your unique personality type, the test offers a roadmap for growth, communication, and success — helping you navigate relationships, careers, and life’s challenges with greater confidence and clarity.
Whether you’re an INTJ visionary, an ENFP dreamer, or an ISFJ protector, each personality type contributes something valuable to the world. Understanding your type is the first step toward unlocking your true potential.
Keywords: maya briggs test, myers briggs test, personality types, self-awareness, personality psychology, 16 personalities, communication styles, personality assessment.