The Myers Briggs functions test goes beyond the traditional 16 personality types by exploring the cognitive functions that drive each individual’s thought patterns, behaviors, and decisions. Instead of simply identifying your type (like INTJ or ESFP), this test uncovers the mental processes behind your preferences — how you think, perceive, and interact with the world.
Understanding the Myers Briggs functions test can give you a deeper insight into your personality. It reveals not only what type you are, but why you think and act the way you do.
What Is the Myers Briggs Functions Test?
The Myers Briggs functions test is a personality assessment based on the psychological theories of Carl Jung. While the standard Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) identifies your personality type using four letter codes (e.g., ENFP, ISTJ), the functions test focuses on the eight cognitive functions — mental processes that describe how your mind naturally operates.
Each MBTI personality type is defined by a unique combination and order of these cognitive functions. They explain how you:
- Gather and interpret information (Perceiving functions)
- Make decisions (Judging functions)
- Interact with the outer world (Extraverted functions)
- Reflect internally (Introverted functions)
The Myers Briggs functions test reveals which functions you rely on most — your dominant and auxiliary functions — and which ones operate in the background.
The 8 Cognitive Functions Explained
According to the Myers Briggs functions test, there are eight cognitive functions, divided between perceiving and judging functions, each with an introverted or extraverted orientation.
1. Extraverted Thinking (Te)
Te organizes and structures the external world logically and efficiently. People with strong Te (e.g., ENTJ, ESTJ) value order, productivity, and measurable results.
2. Introverted Thinking (Ti)
Ti seeks internal logical consistency. Types like INTP and ISTP analyze and refine ideas, valuing precision and understanding over quick conclusions.
3. Extraverted Feeling (Fe)
Fe focuses on harmony, empathy, and interpersonal dynamics. Common in types like ENFJ and ESFJ, this function prioritizes emotional connection and social balance.
4. Introverted Feeling (Fi)
Fi evaluates situations through personal values and authenticity. Found in INFP and ISFP types, it emphasizes moral integrity and emotional depth.
5. Extraverted Intuition (Ne)
Ne explores possibilities and patterns in the external world. ENTP and ENFP types use this function to brainstorm, innovate, and connect abstract ideas.
6. Introverted Intuition (Ni)
Ni perceives underlying meanings and future possibilities internally. INTJ and INFJ types rely on Ni for strategic foresight and deep insights.
7. Extraverted Sensing (Se)
Se experiences life through direct sensory engagement. ESTP and ESFP types with strong Se are spontaneous, action-oriented, and highly aware of their surroundings.
8. Introverted Sensing (Si)
Si recalls and compares past experiences to guide decisions. ISTJ and ISFJ types rely on this function for stability, consistency, and tradition.
How the Myers Briggs Functions Test Works
The Myers Briggs functions test typically presents statements or scenarios that assess your natural preferences in information processing, decision-making, and interaction style. Based on your answers, the test identifies your dominant, auxiliary, tertiary, and inferior functions.
Here’s how these functions typically appear within a personality type’s hierarchy:
- Dominant Function: Your strongest and most natural mental process — how you primarily engage with the world.
- Auxiliary Function: Supports the dominant function and balances your personality.
- Tertiary Function: Develops later in life and provides additional perspective.
- Inferior Function: Your least developed process — often the source of stress or personal growth.
For example, in an INTJ type:
- Dominant: Introverted Intuition (Ni)
- Auxiliary: Extraverted Thinking (Te)
- Tertiary: Introverted Feeling (Fi)
- Inferior: Extraverted Sensing (Se)
Why the Myers Briggs Functions Test Matters
While the standard MBTI test provides a general overview of your type, the functions test gives you a more detailed understanding of your mental processes. It helps explain why two people with the same personality type can still behave differently based on how developed their functions are.
Here are some reasons to take the Myers Briggs functions test:
- Deeper self-awareness: Learn how your mind processes information and makes decisions.
- Improved communication: Understand how you and others interpret the world differently.
- Personal growth: Identify your weaker functions and learn how to strengthen them.
- Career insight: Discover which roles align best with your natural cognitive strengths.
Examples of Function Stacks for Each Type
Each of the 16 Myers Briggs types has a distinct function stack — the order of their four primary functions. Below are a few examples:
- INTJ: Ni → Te → Fi → Se
- ENFP: Ne → Fi → Te → Si
- ISTJ: Si → Te → Fi → Ne
- ENTP: Ne → Ti → Fe → Si
- INFJ: Ni → Fe → Ti → Se
- ESTP: Se → Ti → Fe → Ni
These combinations explain the thinking style, priorities, and behavior of each personality type. For instance, the INTJ’s Ni-Te combination makes them visionary planners, while the ENFP’s Ne-Fi pairing gives them enthusiasm and emotional insight.
Interpreting Your Myers Briggs Functions Test Results
After completing the test, your results reveal the order and strength of your cognitive functions. Understanding your results helps you:
- Recognize how your dominant function shapes your decisions.
- Identify potential blind spots or areas for growth (often tied to the inferior function).
- Balance your logical and emotional sides by developing underused functions.
- Appreciate the differences between yourself and others — especially those with opposite functions.
For example, someone with dominant Extraverted Feeling (Fe) may prioritize harmony and empathy, while someone with dominant Introverted Thinking (Ti) focuses more on logical accuracy and problem-solving.
Benefits of Understanding Cognitive Functions
Taking the Myers Briggs functions test allows you to unlock a more advanced understanding of personality psychology. The benefits extend beyond self-knowledge — they enhance every aspect of life, from work to relationships.
Key Benefits:
- Personal growth: Develop greater emotional intelligence and decision-making awareness.
- Relationship harmony: Understand the motivations and reactions of others more clearly.
- Career alignment: Choose work environments that match your natural cognitive preferences.
- Stress management: Recognize when your inferior function is being overused and learn how to recover balance.
Conclusion: What the Myers Briggs Functions Test Reveals
The Myers Briggs functions test offers a deeper, more detailed look into personality than the basic type system. By exploring the cognitive functions that make up your personality structure, you gain a powerful understanding of your internal motivations, communication style, and potential for growth.
Ultimately, the Myers Briggs functions test helps you see not just who you are — but how your mind works, empowering you to make decisions, build relationships, and pursue goals with greater self-awareness and confidence.