Fluid Intelligence

What is fluid intelligence?

Fluid intelligence (Gf) is the ability to reason logically, identify patterns, and solve entirely novel problems. Concept by Raymond Cattell (1963). Requires no factual knowledge — it's the "raw processing power" of the brain.

Why does it matter?

Fluid intelligence peaks at age 20-30 and slowly declines after. Predicts success in new tasks and adaptation to change. Less trainable than once believed.

How is it measured?

Raven's Progressive Matrices, IQ tests with logic and spatial tasks, WAIS-IV subtests (Matrix Reasoning, Block Design).