The INTP Personality: Key Traits, Strengths, Weaknesses + More

If you've never taken the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), it's a self-reported personality questionnaire that groups people (or "types") into one of 16 personalities. And there's one type that stands out as the intellectual of the bunch: the INTP personality type.

Take Albert Einstein, for example. He was an INTP, and his ability to intuitively, creatively, and intelligently make breakthroughs in theoretical physics is what gave him his legacy. "INTPs are really good at thinking outside of the box and thinking about the big picture of the situation," Blaylock-Solar explains.

If there's one thing to understand about this personality type, it's that they're constantly approaching things from a logical and often solution-oriented perspective. As Blaylock-Solar explains, they love to problem-solve, assess the big picture, and spend time in their own heads.

INTP heads tend to be filled with abstract thoughts, relating to their logical but intuitive nature. The "N" in INTP stands for intuition. As psychologist Kristina Hallett, Ph.D., ABPP, previously wrote for mbg, "Intuition is information gathering from a broader, more 'big picture' perspective that may not be as easily seen from the specific in-the-moment view." And then we have the Thinking aspect (the "T" in INTP), which she notes offers more logical, fact-based decision-making. Put those two traits together, and you have a very interesting mind.

According to Blaylock-Solar, INTPs are known for being independent, having no issue spending time alone, and even coming off a bit aloof sometimes. "They're very independent, though they are pretty loyal and affectionate with people that they're close to," she explains, adding, "On the flip side of that, they can have some trouble sharing their feelings."

"Creative" in this sense doesn't necessarily mean this personality type would make something like a painting, but rather, their creativity lies in their thought process, going back to their aforementioned abstract way of thinking. And again, this type is always inspired by the big picture and solving problems, and their creativity lends itself to this proclivity.

Lastly, don't expect this type to be super chatty and open upon first meeting them. They will eventually open up if you become close, but INTPs can certainly be shy. As Blaylock-Solar notes, they can have a lot of self-doubt and question their ability to do things. She also adds their aloofness can come off as insensitive, so INTPs do get a reputation for seeming detached.

If you're dating an INTP, Blaylock-Solar says it's a good idea to be straightforward with your communication, and create a safe and open environment for them, as this personality type can have a hard time expressing their emotions.

And because this type has a lot of independence, it comes out in their work. Blaylock-Solar says they like a job where they can be autonomous and work alone, so large teams or heavily client-facing roles (like sales or the service industry) likely won't be a good fit for them.

In addition to that, Blaylock-Solar says INTPs would benefit from setting up different systems to keep them on track, whether that's through calendars or different task lists.

Whether you're an INTP or someone in your life is, this personality type is sure to keep your mind abuzz with abstract ideas and insights. And while they may come off shy at first and struggle to express their feelings, once they learn to trust you and open up, you've got a friend for the long haul.