The Ultimate Guide to Understanding the 16 Personality Types

As you explore the 16 personality types, you’re going to learn more about yourself in the process. Originally created by Katharine Briggs and Isabel Myers, they worked together to create the MBTI personality types to help others understand how they are fundamentally different.

It then became named the Myers-Briggs Personality Inventory, or MBTI.

By understanding your personality type, you’ll be able to implement a different approach that better suits who you are. It allows you to play to your strengths while understanding why your weaknesses exist. When you know what works for you, you’ll feel empowered as you make choices that will work well for your personality type.

How The Myers-Briggs Personality Type Test Came About

Myers and Briggs were intrigued by Carl Jung’s theory about different personality types based on psychological makeup. They also recognized that it was possible to apply Jung’s approach to real-life situations. As a result, they developed a personality indicator that could be applied to people to assist them in selecting the occupations best suited for their personalities.

The very first test was put into practice in the 1940s, and then over the next two decades, Myers and Briggs worked to fully develop the test so that it would be effective when applied correctly. They designed the test to have questions you answer to identify which one of the 16 personalities you have.

How The Tests Are Scored

One of the most important things to remember about personality tests is that not a single one is better than any other personality. They’re just different and meant to teach you more about yourself and how you fit into your world.

And while there are newer, more statistical personality tests, such as the Big 5, the MBTI is very easy to use and a great starting point to understand personality in people, whether yourself or the people around you.

It works like this. Key factors are weighed against each other to identify which personality type fits you best, like extraversion (E) vs. introversion (I). This theory was first explored by Jung and was developed to explain how and why people interact with others. 

Extraverts like social interactions and being around others can be energizing. On the other hand, introverts tend to prefer to recharge while being alone and enjoy meaningful interactions with others. While both tend to have some overlap, each person also has an inclination towards one or the other.

Scoring also includes sensing (S) vs. intuition (N). People tend to prefer one or the other, but these can also overlap. Those who sense the world around them learn more about what happens by choosing hands-on experiences as their primary way of acquiring new knowledge. Intuitive types tend to favor thinking about abstract ideas, imagining what the future holds, and looking for patterns or impressions in other people’s behaviors.

Another set of evaluated characteristics compares thinking (T) vs. feeling (F). By analyzing how people decide between choices, information indicates if someone is more sensing or intuitive and what drives their decision-making. Sensing people prefer thinking and logic, whereas intuitive people prefer feeling and emotional decisions.

The MBTI personality test assesses the final traits based on judging (J) vs. perceiving (P). This looks at how people deal with the world around them. Judging individuals prefer firm decision-making and sound structure. Those who prefer perceiving tend to be more adaptable and flexible. 

When scoring the Myers-Briggs personality type tests, it’s critical to remember that every individual will have overlap on every scale, but you’ll naturally be inclined to go one way more than the other. It doesn’t make you better or worse as a person but instead gives you a roadmap to understand who you are and why you think the way you do.

The 16 Personalities According to MBTI Personality Types

Here are the types of personalities possible according to the MBTI personality test. Remember, you might think you identify with one over another, but to really be able to say for certain which one works best with who you are, it’s always better to take the test itself. This will help you dive deeper into the right information.

Sensory Personality Types

ISTJ Personalities

The ISTJ personality type is the traditionalist. They are strong, silent types who like to focus on getting their work done and not drawing much attention to themselves. The term “supervisor” accurately describes ISTJs who often serve as managers of projects or companies.

Chatty Cathys won’t find it easy to relate to this type of personality, but consider that ISTJs are often very capable of friendship.

They’re incredibly dependable and dedicated to preserving traditions. They value loyalty, personal integrity, and other traditional values. Strongly opinionated, they definitely have their own ideas about matters large and small. Loyal to family members, coworkers, or employees who have earned their trust, ISTJs can be counted on to remain steadfast.

ISTP Personalities

As with many other personalities, ISTPs, who prefer sensing, have a robust physical orientation. They live in the moment and want to experience everything they can about their environment. The term “adventurer” describes ISTPs to a tee.

They tend to be very self-sufficient and like to take matters into their own hands. ISTPs are logical people who enjoy solving problems without being told what to do, so they may have trouble with authority figures. They are often very athletic individuals you’ll find taking part in many different kinds of sports.

Fascinated with gadgets and tools, ISTPs will often have an extensive collection of their own.

ISFJ Personalities

ISFJs prefer introversion and tend to keep to themselves more than other types. They are reserved individuals who treasure their time alone or in small, close-knit groups. The term “defender” accurately describes ISFJs who value protecting and helping those they care about.

They are susceptible to other people’s feelings and take their responsibilities very seriously. They make loyal friends because of their concern for others’ welfare but should be careful not to smother those friends as ISFJ people can be intensely private individuals. They enjoy creating a harmonious environment for their loved ones and have a knack for bringing out the best in people.

They are practical, sensible individuals who do not believe in taking unnecessary risks. Although quiet, they tend to be very pleasant and cooperative. They often enjoy creating or recreating a peaceful home life.

ISFP Personalities

As with all other personality types, those who prefer intuition strongly prefer to focus on the future rather than dwelling on the past, which is exactly what ISFPs do. For this reason, they tend to be more creative and somewhat unpredictable. They may appear to calm one minute and excited the next as long as they work toward some future goal. The term “protagonist” accurately describes ISFPs who see themselves as helpers and facilitators.

They strive to improve the world somehow and make a point of noticing what needs to be done for that improvement to occur. ISFPs enjoy going out of their way to help people and animals, but they also have an adventurous side which often brings them back to nature on camping trips or similar activities. They feel uncomfortable when they are asked to be direct and forthright about their feelings, so they may find it easier to express themselves through writing or art.

ESTP Personalities

Individuals, like ESTPs, prefer sensing, are very observant of their surroundings, and focus on the present moment. The term “entertainer” describes ESTPs quite well as they are outgoing individuals who enjoy being where the action is at all times.

They have excellent people skills and tend to be very social, making them appear charming or magnetic in most situations. They enjoy activities that stimulate their minds and may become bored with very repetitive tasks. ESTPs tend to be impatient in nature, so they enjoy taking risks, especially when the risk will lead to rewards or benefits in the long run.

ESFP Personalities

ESFPs are the individuals who prefer sensing and who greatly enjoy the “here and now.” They are well-liked by people around them as they tend to be humorous, spontaneous, and easygoing. ESFPs often excel at physical activities like sports or dancing due to their athletic nature.

They dislike dealing with problems that do not have immediate solutions and may become stressed or frustrated if they cannot fix a problem quickly. ESFPs will often avoid open-ended thinking and complex topics as they bore them quite easily. They learn best with hands-on experience rather than by studying abstract concepts.

ESFJ Personalities

ESFJs who prefer feeling also greatly value ethics and human relationships in decision-making processes. They are focused on pleasing others and tend to avoid conflict whenever possible. The term “protector” describes ESFJs quite well, as they spend a lot of their time looking out for the people around them.

They make loyal companions who will put the needs of their loved ones above their own. They will often go out of their way to make someone in a bad mood feel better, and they enjoy doing things that make other people happy. ESFJs tend to be skilled at managing finances and appreciate routine and security in their lives.

ESTJ Personalities

Individuals who prefer to use the attribute of “judging” place value on decisiveness. This is an aspect of ESTJ people, who enjoy basing their decisions on universal laws and traditions. As well, ESTJs often make great managers or leaders due to their practical nature and their focus on getting things done in a timely manner.

They are good at maintaining order and structure in their lives and typically dislike vague thinking processes. They will step up and take on responsibilities if they see that someone else is not doing their job correctly. ESTJs tend to be very practical and results-oriented in most situations and may become frustrated with people who do not share their work ethic or values.

Intuitive Personality Types

INFJ Personalities

As you may have guessed, individuals who prefer intuition tend to look toward the future more than those who prefer sensing. The term “counselor” accurately describes INFJs as they enjoy helping others and guiding them through life so that their inner voice is never lost.

They like to help people and sometimes do this by simply listening patiently to the rambling thoughts of others. INFJs are very insightful individuals who enjoy analyzing and interpreting information, making them excellent counselors, teachers, and writers. They dislike being put on the spot, so they may not appear outgoing, but INFJs truly desire harmony with those around them.

INFP Personalities

As with many other personalities, INFPs, who prefer introversion, are more reserved than those who prefer extroversion. The term “mediator” accurately describes INFPs as they are very understanding of others’ problems and often feel compelled to help them in some way.

They try to see everything from every person’s perspective and dislike anything which conflicts with their inner values. Although they are very private individuals, INFPs desire harmony in all of their relationships and may feel hurt or uncomfortable if they cannot help someone who is suffering. They enjoy being active both mentally and physically, allowing them to clear their heads.

INTP Personalities 

The terms “architect” and “engineer” describe INTPs very well. They are logical, analytical individuals who enjoy problem-solving and exploring ideas for the sheer fun of it. They do not believe in taking things at face value but instead prefer to dig deep into a topic before they will trust their own knowledge on the subject.

They often make excellent teachers due to their ability to explain complex topics in a simple, straightforward manner. They prefer not to be tied down by rules and regulations and may avoid taking traditional career paths as a result. Their love of logic and problem-solving makes INTPs very good at understanding how various programs or mechanisms work, making them excellent hackers if they deem it necessary.

INTJ Personalities

INTJs prefer introversion and are often more reserved in nature, especially compared to those who prefer extroversion. People with this personality type enjoy being alone or in small groups of close friends rather than in large social settings. The term “strategist” describes INTJs very well as they enjoy formulating long-term plans which will help them achieve personal or professional goals.

They are very independent and make excellent leaders due to their vision, confidence, and willingness to take risks. Their need for independence may discourage them from settling down quickly, but if they find someone who shares similar values, an INTJ will likely form a strong relationship with that person. They enjoy debating a topic with someone they trust to be logical and intelligent.

ENFJ Personalities

Individuals who prefer feeling tend to be enthusiastic about the lives of others and want to help them achieve their dreams. ENFJs enjoy making other people happy and rely heavily on gut instincts when dealing with people.

The term “teacher” describes ENFJs quite well, as they typically try to solve problems by appealing to relationships rather than facts or details.

ENTP Personalities

ENTPs are individuals who prefer intuition and greatly value knowledge while constantly trying to learn new things. They are driven by ideas and possibilities rather than traditions or rules, making them excellent problem-solvers.

They enjoy complex subjects like philosophy or science as they find these topics fascinating. ENTPs tend to be very creative due to their open-minded nature and may also be skilled at sales or other activities involving persuading people.

ENFP Personalities

ENFPs prefer intuition while immensely enjoying the excitement of living life to its fullest. They avoid getting too focused on any topic and may become easily bored with routine or mundane tasks.

They are skilled at understanding complex theories but may have a hard time applying them in a practical way. ENFPs tend to explore many different interests throughout their lifetime and do not feel bound to one way of thinking.

ENTJ Personalities

ENTJ personalities prefer logical and linear thinking in their decision-making. They enjoy basing decisions on solid facts and objectivity. Meanwhile, they do not like it when other people question or challenge their decisions.

They tend to avoid open-ended questions and dislike discussing abstract ideas unless they see a practical application for doing so. ENTJs may be seen as stubborn and critical by people who prefer other ways of thinking, and will step up and take charge when they see a situation that needs to be resolved.

Discovering Your MBTI Personality Type

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a widely used personality test that helps people understand their psychological preferences. In today’s world, many students and workers are taking the MBTI to lead themselves and those around them better.

According to the MBTI theory, there are 16 different ways people prefer to gather information. There are four main preferences that represent how a person will naturally interact with the world around them, and how they learn and make decisions.

Once you have determined your primary way of thinking and gathering information, along with the preferred methods you use to make decisions and take action, it is a good idea to ask yourself what kinds of personalities share those preferences. Learning more about people who have similar preferences can be very helpful when learning how to better communicate and collaborate with everyone around you.

To get a more definitive answer, it’s important to talk with an experienced coach or mentor. Sign up for an Action Call and we’re happy to help you, right from the first free call.