Are You an Introvert? A Test for Introverted Personality Traits
How Do You Know If You're an Introvert? Take the Test!
This test for introverted personality traits not only reveals if you’re an introvert, it describes the top signs of introversion – some of which will surprise you. This personality test is from The Introvert Advantage by Marti Olsen Laney.
For instance, did you know that introverts don’t think of casual acquaintances as friends? And, introverts take a long time to sort out information…and they dread returning phone calls (that’s me!).
“Introverts enjoy time alone, consider only deep relationships as friends, and feel drained after outside activities, even if they were fun” says Marti Olsen Laney, author of The Introvert & Extrovert in Love: Making It Work When Opposites Attract.
Laney also says these famous female actresses are introverts: Gwyneth Paltrow, Helen Hunt, Meg Ryan, Meryl Streep, Diane Keaton, Grace Kelly, Julia Robert, Michelle Pfeiffer, Ingrid Bergman, Candice Bergen, and Glenn Close. Wow! We’re all in good company, then 
.
A Test for Introverted Personality Traits
Answer true or false to the following questions about introversion and extroversion:
1. I like to have long, uninterrupted periods to work on projects, rather than small chunks.
2. I sometimes rehearse things before speaking, occasionally writing notes to myself.
3. I like to listen more than talk.
4. People sometimes think I’m quiet, mysterious, aloof or calm.
5. I usually need to think before I respond or speak.
6. I like to share special occasions with just one or two people, rather than have a big celebration.
7. I tend to notice details many people don’t see.
8. If two people have just had an argument, I feel the tension in the air.
9. If I say I’ll do something, I almost always do it.
10. I feel anxious if I have a deadline or pressure.
11. I can zone out if too much is going on.
12. I like to watch an activity for awhile before joining in.
13. I form lasting relationships.
14. I don’t like to interrupt others; I don’t like to be interrupted.
15. When I take in lots of information, it takes me awhile to sort it out.
16. I don’t like overstimulating environments.
17. I sometimes have strong reactions to smells, tastes, foods, weather, and noise.
18. I am creative and/or imaginative.
19. I feel drained after social situations, even when I enjoy myself.
20. I prefer to be introduced rather than having to introduce others.
21. I often feel uncomfortable in new surroundings.
22. I can become grouchy if I’m around people or activities for too long.
23. I often dread returning phone calls.
24. I like people to come to my home, but I don’t like them to stay a long time.
25. I find my mind sometimes goes blank when I meet people or when I am asked to speak unexpectedly.
26. I talk slowly or have gaps in my words, especially if I’m tired or if I’m trying to think and speak at once.
27. I don’t think of acquaintances as close friends.
28. I feel as if I can’t show other people my ideas until they’re fully formulated.
29. Other people may surprise me by thinking I’m smarter than I am.
Are you an introvert? Finding the answers to this personality test is easy
Simply add up your “true” responses. The more “trues” you have, the more introverted personality traits or introversion signs you possess…
Scoring:
20-29 “true” responses means you’re a true introvert (like me!). “Only deep relationships measure up as friendships and you use them to relax. You need to mentally rest throughout the day, even after enjoyable activities. Because you will draw a blank under pressure, prepare for meetings, talks, and even parties beforehand. Accept your nature and learn to politely fend off energy-draining people.”
10-19 “true” responses means you’re both introverted and extroverted. “You sometimes feel torn between the desire to dance in the streets and walk alone on the beach. Notice this, so you can keep your energy consistent. You judge yourself through your thoughts and feelings, and through others, leaving you with a broad view that is sometimes difficult to straddle.”
1-9 “true” responses means you’re an extrovert. “You relish variety, have lots of ‘close, personal’ friends and will chat with complete strangers. Your stimulation is all external, so you talk, think, and act quickly. As you reach midlife, however, you may need to take a break from the high life to reflect, even though it goes against your nature.”
To learn more about extroverts, read 5 Personality Traits of Extroverted People.
Did this test for introverted personality traits reveal anything new about your personality? I welcome your comments below!
Category: Personality Traits & Types, Psychology Tips, Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence
dear laurie
thank you for your advice!
your probably right…I was thinking that it had to be more than just introversion!
thanks.
Dear Laurie,
I’ve answered the personality trait questions and I ended up with a 26/29 being 7,9, and 13 a “no”. I’m hesitating a bit here but I thought of maybe a person might be able to give me an advice about my situation here.
My parents are worried about my future lately. Didn’t go to school because I don’t want my parents to have debts or I don’t really have a reason to, didn’t feel like getting my first job because of my shyness which always blanks me out or it could be an inferiority complex, and I think I lack self-X where X being Esteem, Confidence, Respect.
My situation would be pretty similar to Irish-Introvert’s but I have no clue how bad my situation really is. Tinkering with any electronic device I find interesting or to read or watch something like a romantic comedy or either of those genres just gets thoughts to leak out of my mouth, which my parents think I’m crazy or something because I talk to myself often.
I know that I’m an introvert but, it seems likely that most, if not all, introverts will have a hard time with society from the start.
Dear Sam,
I think you have to accept that there is no way to logically explain such a major life decision! No matter how rational and objective you are, your family will react emotionally — because religion is an emotional topic.
I encourage you to figure out your reasons for being an atheist. Be clear in your own mind why you believe what you believe. This might make it easier to explain your beliefs to your family.
And, when you’re having The Discussion, try to avoid theological debates or arguments. Your intention isn’t to debate God’s existence, but to share what you now believe. The less argumentative the conversation is, the less emotional it’ll be.
But no matter how you spin it, it’ll be a tough conversation. Even writing a letter won’t make it emotion-less…it’s just the nature of the topic!
I hope this helps, and wish you all good things.
Laurie
Dear Irish-Introvert,
I encourage you to talk to a counselor about your worries, anxieties, fears, and self-isolation. You’re dealing with alot!
It sounds like you’re dealing with more than “just” introverted personality traits…it sounds like you’re struggling with people, relationships, and how to interact with your friends and family. Those are big issues, and they don’t usually just go away on their own. Sometimes they do, but often we need to take action in dealing with our issues.
So, I encourage you to talk to a counselor. Even just a session or two can be incredibly helpful!
Blessings,
Laurie
Dear Laurie,
Fascinating site and conversation you have here, I am glad I found it. I was wondering if you could give me your opinion. (Forum feel welcome to comment also). I know that I am an introvert, and my close friends and family know it also. But just because they know it doesn’t always make dealing with me any easier.
My question is: I have made a life decision that will probably very much upset my family, especially my parents – and confuse alot of my friends. I have come to realize that I am an atheist – while all of my family is Catholic to the letter. Regarless of what you think religiously…
How do I logically explain a decision that I know is going to bring up alot of emotion? I’ve tried writing a letter, I’ve thought of the perfect place and time, but no matter how many times I run the scenario through my mind, it always ends up with alot of people feeling hurt.
Any advice on how an introverted atheist can explain his/her decision and not seem like a cold heartless bastard to all his lovable extrovert friends and family?
Thanks.
I am worried.Worried about my introvertion.My mother has high hopes of me entering an art school,for career purposes.But when I think about it…I worry,Sometimes I feel sick.I feel that people won’t understand or appretiate my work or personality.
Lately I’ve been avoiding school…I use sickness as an excuse and I’m starting to worry people.
My best Friend,Whom I Adore entirely Has friends that I feel uncomfertable around,I can’t have a conversation with them,they Insult me and mock me…My friend says they’re always Like that and they were only joking,But even after that I still feel awful.
I would like to have confidence and be able to call them friends,They are nice people,But I’m just questioning now if it would be easier to Avoid them altogether….However I just Don’t want to Hurt my friends feelings by sying “I don’t like your friends”
Im avoiding great oppertunitys because of this.I havent gone to familly events,partys or gatherings because it Drains me…
It’s strange that when I’m comfertable with someone I miraculously become Extrovert,even when alone….
Anything Anyone could advise?…..please?
Hello Laurie,
I am interested in using some of these questions in my behavioral research methods class for a survey on internet addiction and introverted personality traits. Would your permission be granted? If so, do you need any other resources from me?
thanks,
Jen
I’m glad you found this test for introverted personality traits helpful! Maybe you’ll go into psychology or human behavioral studies of some sort….it really is fascinating.
Wow, what a fantastic test!! both me and my partner took the test and I found out so much about myself and reasons why I behave the way I do…..not because I have completely low self esteem, but because I am a complete introvert, where my partner is half and half. For instance, when we have people round, I am always worrying that they are not enjoying themselves, or getting bored and waning to go home, ande have both not been able to understand why I am so “paranoid” in this situation, until I answered TRUE to “I like having people around, but I dont like them to stay for too long”
im completely taken in and fascinated by this!
Again what a fascinating test, I think Ive chosen the right course at University now
We do indeed have to look after ourselves….whether we’re introverts or not….but I think people with introverted personality traits might need to focus more on self-care than people with extroverted personality traits!
I have enjoyed reading these comments, and doing the questionaire,
I have always been quiet, and a loner, prefering my own company.
I have always considered myself as a good listener, but this can
cause problems sometimes, as some people drain me. These are usually
the self important people who think I want to hear all about them.
As I have got older, I have found it easier to be more assertive
about my own needs.
If we do not look after ourselves, who else will?
Yes, you’re a true introvert — and there’s nothing wrong with that! As long as you’re happy, and not totally isolated from the world (because people with at least some social ties live longer and are physically healthier).
hey! i thought i’m the only one who felt like this.. and yah it’s weird. i enjoy being alone. i find hard socializing. sometimes it’s sad that i felt like i can’t get along with them I mean HOW?!” T.T ahm. thanks! now i know myself. it’s not that bad that i think. ^_^ (HERE’S WHAT I GOT –> *20-29* is true, im a true introvert)
Dear Stacy,
Thanks for your request — I’d love to write more articles about extroverts!
Here are two:
The Extrovert Personality at Work – 5 Personality Traits of Extroverted People
Money Saving Tips for Extroverts
If you have any specific questions about extroverted personality traits, please let me know. I’d be happy to try and answer them!
Laurie
Why have you not done any articles on People with extroverts personality traits?
If you have could you please refer me to them?
Thank you,
I’m an introvert with social skills.
The best response, in my opinion, to the question “Why don’t you talk more?” is to reply “Why don’t you shut up more?”
I realize this may sound harsh and antagonistic to some people, but occasionally the other person will laugh, and perhaps even at that point realize how inappropriate or offensive the question is. That’s the kind of person it may be worthwhile to get to know. And if they get hurt or offended, so what? Introverts aren’t generally interested in making a lot of friends anyway. I prefer quality over quantity myself. Unfortunately, there’s also another kind of response, I would term as mindless obliviousness, which seems to be common among the obnoxious type of extrovert, in which they entirely brush off almost anything anyone else says anyway and will continue to harass you, but it’s life and we have to deal with it as we can. Just try not to slap them upside the head if you can control yourself.
As for the dating and relationship problems we have, my advice, to the guys anyway, is to be patient and don’t give up. I can see in my own life a progression in dealing with the opposite sex. I never even talked to a girl in high school, I went on a couple dates in college, and since then I’ve actually had a few girlfriends that have been good relationships. My social progress has been well behind the extroverted “normal” course, as far as first date, first kiss, first sexual experience…but it has all come with patience and the desire to keep working toward my goals when it comes to women.
Take small slow steps, plenty of time to recover yourself, and always remember that no one else determines your worth as a person, only you do. There will be setbacks, and discouragement, but there will also be happiness and fulfillment, as long as you keep at it. Decide who you want to be, how you want to behave around others, if at all, and work toward that place. And never let anyone tell you there’s something wrong with the person you are or want to be. (Unless you want to be a serial killer or something.) As has been said before, if you don’t even try to reach your goals, you WILL fail.
First of all WOW! I had no idea so many people thought or felt the way I do. The first thought that comes to mind is why I haven’t run into more people like me. I can honestly say most of my friends are extroverts and definately speak their minds. Especially my boyfriend. I think over the years I felt I had to adopt some extrovert traits. Such as: Looking people in the eye when I talk to them and be confident in my speech. Smiling was a big one for me, learning to smile when someone looks at me Even if they are not smiling. It changes the way you carry yourself (in a good way). I chose to “adopt” these traits with much practice. Not to appease others but to help me better live my life. Im still an introvert and proud of it!
my result is both introverted and extroverted which is true because i have few friends but i enjoy working around people especially to those i have just met. but I’m sad because I’m always alone and i want to have many friends!
QuietStorm – I feel like you were writing about me.
Coco Bean – You summed it up best “Reading this blog is like discovering water after a long trek in the desert.”
I’m a 40 year old woman and have been wondering for all of these years why I feel the way I do—like an outcast. I am so happy to know there are others out there that feel the same way and that we’re not alone in this. I’m exhausted after socializing, I enjoy my alone time (have to have it), and get tired of people thinking that I’m less of person than them because I don’t constantly talk about myself and all of my accomplishments. Here I thought something was wrong with me, because that’s what I was told. I have been trying to “fix” myself for years. Well, now that I understand why I am the way I am, I’m going to learn more about it and embrace it. Thank you Laurie for writing this article and to everyone for sharing your thoughts and feelings.
Hi..I scored 20/29..but still..I believe I am highly introvert..due to some other tests i took..and my answer for last question is true..Well, it’s not like i dont think im smart..so many ppl thought i am..but ive never excelled in my school except during my study at university..
Being an introvert sometimes is a problem to me..cuz it’s hard for me to speak up my thought and sometimes ppl just dont listen..maybe because im not convincing enough..and i usually lost few good opportunities since some other ppl who really want them..they grab it even if it’s for me..it’s because i just allow them to take it since they want it so badly..but at the end..i feel sad..
I am a 32 year old African American woman and I have heard MY ENTIRE life how anti-social I am. I have gone through life just brushing it off and as Mike stated earlier just “WAS MYSELF”. I can honestly say that just being myself has done way more BAD than GOOD. I keep a close network of friends who have been my friends for years. I do not wish to make new friends because I feel quite secure in my own little world. Now, job related is an entirely different story. I cannot keep a job longer than 2 years. If I am on that job longer than a few years I have usually been transferred from one dept to another. The bonus is I always get transferred/promoted to a better department but the downside is I always have personality conflicts with my co-workers. It is funny because I have always foolishly believed that if you go to work everyday, do your job and go home, you will never have any problems at work. That is so far from the truth. Because I choose not to go to happy hour after work, go to lunch with co-workers or entertain their miserable lives because they are up to their neck in debt and their husbands are cheating on them I am labeled a social misfit.
I stumbled upon this article by simple coincidence and I believe this is a wake-up call. I like many others have gone through life thinking what’s wrong with me? Why is it when I transfer to a new dept people are nice and friendly and later those same folks will make my life miserable. Well now I know! I plan to research this topic in depth over the next few weeks as I indeed search for new employment. I think the unique thing with me is I am a social butterfly in job interviews. I have never interviewed for a job and was not extended employment. I usually sit in panel interviews watching the interviewers facial expressions as they are amazed with my knowledge and all of my experience (I’ve been transferred so many times I have a wide range of experience) and my winning personality. I also know while participating in these interviews that this is the last real conversation they will ever have with me.
Its not that I don’t like people I just do not care to be around them and entertain their BS. A perfect day for me would honestly be for me to wake up, watch all of my T.V shows or read a good book at home ALONE. This would be without no one ringing the doorbell or the phone ringing at all. But society thinks there is something wrong with this. I want to fit into the extrovert role but it is very difficult for me. Does anyone have any advice as I began my journey to find my next job on how to pretend to fit in without losing my sanity?
I’ve always known that I am introverted, but I still found this article and test interesting (I scored 29/29). Despite my quiet nature, I find myself preparing to become a high school English teacher; however, true to form, I come home from working as a teacher’s aide completely drained. Oddly, my life is best suited for an extrovert, but I manage. I have a special needs child who requires more attention than I can consistently give him while meeting the demands of work and graduate school (both full-time). My son now stays with his grandmother during the school week, which allows me to study upon my return home from work. He comes back home on the weekends. I am now less stressed with this arrangement, yet I still struggle to recharge my batteries. If I had the luxury, I could easily spend days on end by myself and be completely content.
I can completely relate to the comments here. I have always struggled with being a quiet person. I didn’t realize how introverted I was until I read “The Introvert Advantage”(great book, everyone should read it). I could never understand why I couldn’t think of things to say to people, why my mind went blank. It still frustrates me. I always wished I could talk more and I still do. I get so tired of people saying “you’re so quiet” or “you should talk more”. They act like it’s so easy but it’s not for me. After reading the aforementioned book, I tried to be more understanding and accepting of the way I am, but its difficult when you’re surrounded by extroverts all the time who make you feel bad for being the way you are.
And LaShonda, I can really relate to you because I am an african-american female also. It’s even less likely for an african-american female to be intoverted, we are expected to be loud so that makes it even more difficult.
I don’t think introverts should have to change, but I wish extroverts would be more understanding and accepting of introverts and understand that we’re just different.
How to explain that if I prefer alone (or just with the close friend/certain people) is not weird.