What Are the 16 Personalities Called? Complete Quiz Guide (2025) 🧩

Ever wondered what those four mysterious letters—like INFP or ESTJ—actually mean? Or why millions worldwide are obsessed with the 16 personalities quiz? You’re not alone! Whether you’re a curious newbie or a seasoned personality type enthusiast, this guide unpacks every nook and cranny of the 16 personalities quiz. From the origins of these types to how they influence your career, relationships, and even leadership style, we’ve got you covered.

Stick around because later, we’ll reveal the surprising truth about the rarest personality types and share expert tips on how to get the most accurate results. Plus, if you’ve ever felt “boxed in” by your quiz result, we’ll show you how to break free and make the system work for you—not the other way around.

Key Takeaways

  • The 16 personalities quiz categorizes people into four main groups: Analysts, Diplomats, Sentinels, and Explorers, each with unique traits.
  • Understanding your type can boost personal growth, career choices, and relationships.
  • The quiz is based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), but it’s not a perfect science—use it as a guide, not a label.
  • You’ll learn how to take the quiz for the most accurate results and what to do if your results don’t quite fit.
  • Discover the rarest personality types and what makes them stand out in 2025!

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Table of Contents

Quick Tips and Facts About the 16 Personalities Quiz

The 16 personalities quiz is a popular tool used to determine an individual’s personality type based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). To learn more about the rarest personality types, check out our article on What Is the Rarest 16 Personality? Top 10 Types Revealed (2025). Here are some key facts about the 16 personalities quiz:

  • The quiz categorizes individuals into one of 16 distinct personality types, each represented by a four-letter code (e.g., INFP, ESTJ).
  • The 16 personality types are divided into four groups: Analysts, Diplomats, Sentinels, and Explorers.
  • Each personality type has its unique strengths, weaknesses, and characteristics.
  • The quiz is based on four dichotomies: Introversion (I) vs. Extraversion (E), Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N), Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F), and Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P).
  • Understanding your personality type can help you gain insights into your strengths, weaknesses, and preferences, which can be useful for personal growth, career development, and relationships.

The Fascinating Origins and Evolution of the 16 Personalities Model


Video: 16 Personalities Taking the 16 Personalities Test.








The 16 personalities model has its roots in the work of Carl Jung, a Swiss psychiatrist who developed the concept of psychological types. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) was later developed by Katharine Cook Briggs and Isabel Briggs Myers. The MBTI has undergone several revisions and updates over the years, with the current version being the most widely used. For more information on the MBTI, visit the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator category on our website.

History of the MBTI

The MBTI was first developed in the 1940s and 1950s by Katharine Cook Briggs and Isabel Briggs Myers. The first version of the MBTI was published in 1962, and it has since become one of the most widely used personality assessments in the world. To learn more about the history of the MBTI, check out our article on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.

What Are the 16 Personality Types Called? A Complete Breakdown


Video: How to Recognize Each of the 16 Personalities!








The 16 personality types are divided into four groups: Analysts, Diplomats, Sentinels, and Explorers. Each group has four personality types, each with its unique characteristics and strengths.

Analysts

The Analysts group includes the following personality types:

  1. Architect (INTJ-A / INTJ-T): Imaginative and strategic thinkers, with a plan for everything.
  2. Logician (INTP-A / INTP-T): Innovative inventors with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.
  3. Commander (ENTJ-A / ENTJ-T): Bold, imaginative and strong-willed leaders, always finding a way – or making one.
  4. Debater (ENTP-A / ENTP-T): Smart and curious thinkers who cannot resist an intellectual challenge.

Diplomats

The Diplomats group includes the following personality types:

  1. Advocate (INFJ-A / INFJ-T): Quiet and mystical, yet very inspiring and tireless idealists.
  2. Mediator (INFP-A / INFP-T): Poetic, kind and altruistic people, always eager to help a good cause.
  3. Protagonist (ENFJ-A / ENFJ-T): Charismatic and inspiring leaders, able to mesmerize their listeners.
  4. Campaigner (ENFP-A / ENFP-T): Enthusiastic, creative and sociable free spirits, who can always find a reason to smile.

Sentinels

The Sentinels group includes the following personality types:

  1. Logistician (ISTJ-A / ISTJ-T): Practical and fact-minded individuals, whose reliability cannot be doubted.
  2. Defender (ISFJ-A / ISFJ-T): Very dedicated and warm protectors, always ready to defend their loved ones.
  3. Executive (ESTJ-A / ESTJ-T): Excellent administrators, unsurpassed at managing things – or people.
  4. Consul (ESFJ-A / ESFJ-T): Extraordinarily caring, social and popular people, always eager to help.

Explorers

The Explorers group includes the following personality types:

  1. Virtuoso (ISTP-A / ISTP-T): Bold and practical experimenters, masters of all kinds of tools.
  2. Adventurer (ISFP-A / ISFP-T): Flexible and charming artists, always ready to explore and experience something new.
  3. Entrepreneur (ESTP-A / ESTP-T): Smart, energetic and very perceptive people, who truly enjoy living on the edge.
  4. Entertainer (ESFP-A / ESFP-T): Spontaneous, energetic and enthusiastic people – life is never boring around them.

How the 16 Personalities Quiz Works: Behind the Scenes


Video: Are the 16 Personalities Accurate?








The 16 personalities quiz is based on a series of questions that assess an individual’s preferences and behaviors. The quiz is designed to determine an individual’s personality type based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). To learn more about the MBTI, visit the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator category on our website.

The Questionnaire

The questionnaire consists of a series of questions that ask about an individual’s preferences and behaviors. The questions are designed to assess an individual’s tendencies and preferences in four areas: Introversion (I) vs. Extraversion (E), Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N), Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F), and Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P).

Taking the 16 Personalities Quiz: Tips for Accurate Results


Video: MBTI Personality Test | 16 Personalities.








To get accurate results from the 16 personalities quiz, it’s essential to answer the questions honestly and authentically. Here are some tips for taking the quiz:

  • Answer the questions based on your natural preferences and tendencies, rather than what you think you should be.
  • Don’t try to manipulate the results by answering questions in a way that you think will give you a certain personality type.
  • Take your time and answer the questions carefully.
  • Consider taking the quiz multiple times to ensure that your results are consistent.

Using Your 16 Personality Type for Personal Growth and Career Success


Video: Myers Briggs Personality Types Explained.








Understanding your 16 personality type can be a powerful tool for personal growth and career success. By knowing your strengths, weaknesses, and preferences, you can:

  • Identify career paths that are a good fit for your personality type.
  • Develop strategies for improving your relationships and communication skills.
  • Gain insights into your motivations and values.
  • Develop a plan for personal growth and self-improvement.

Career Choices and Personality

To learn more about how personality types relate to career choices, visit the Career Choices and Personality category on our website.

Common Misconceptions and Myths About the 16 Personalities


Video: What Personality Type Am I? | 16 Personalities Quiz.








There are several common misconceptions and myths about the 16 personalities quiz. Here are a few:

  • The quiz is not a scientifically proven instrument, and its validity and reliability have been questioned by some researchers.
  • The quiz is not a measure of intelligence or ability, but rather a tool for understanding personality preferences and tendencies.
  • The quiz is not a predictor of success or failure, but rather a tool for personal growth and self-improvement.

Top Online 16 Personalities Quizzes and Resources


Video: Is the 16personalities test any good?








There are several online resources and quizzes available for learning more about the 16 personalities. Here are a few:

Real-Life Applications: How Brands and Employers Use Personality Types


Video: The Personality Type QUIZ – Which One Are You?








Personality types are used in a variety of real-life applications, including:

  • Career development: Many employers use personality tests to help employees identify career paths that are a good fit for their personality type.
  • Team building: Personality types can be used to build effective teams and improve communication and collaboration.
  • Marketing: Brands use personality types to develop targeted marketing campaigns and improve customer engagement.

Personality in Leadership

To learn more about how personality types relate to leadership, visit the Personality in Leadership category on our website.

What to Do If You Don’t Agree With Your 16 Personality Result


Video: ISTP Personality EXPLAINED The Most Mysterious Type in MBTI.








If you don’t agree with your 16 personality result, there are several things you can do:

  • Take the quiz again to see if your results are consistent.
  • Research your personality type to learn more about its characteristics and tendencies.
  • Consider seeking feedback from friends, family, or a career counselor to gain a more nuanced understanding of your personality.

Video: Can I Guess the 16 Personalities Types of My Viewers?!








Here are some recommended books and tools for deepening your personality insights:

  • “Please Understand Me” by David Keirsey: A book that provides an in-depth look at the 16 personality types and their characteristics.
  • “The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator” by Isabel Briggs Myers: A book that provides an introduction to the MBTI and its applications.
  • 16Personalities: A website that offers a range of resources and tools for learning about the 16 personalities.

For more information on personality types and relationships, visit the Personality and Relationships category on our website.

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Conclusion: Unlocking the Power of the 16 Personalities Quiz

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After diving deep into the world of the 16 personalities quiz, it’s clear this tool offers much more than just a catchy four-letter code. Whether you’re an Architect plotting your next big move or a Campaigner lighting up the room, understanding your personality type can unlock insights into your behavior, relationships, and career choices.

✅ Positives:

  • Provides a structured framework to understand yourself and others.
  • Helps identify strengths and areas for growth.
  • Widely accessible and easy to take online for free.
  • Useful for career guidance, team building, and personal development.

❌ Negatives:

  • Scientific validity and reliability have been questioned by experts.
  • Results can vary if taken multiple times or under different moods.
  • May oversimplify complex human personalities into fixed categories.

Our expert team at Personality Types™ confidently recommends using the 16 personalities quiz as a starting point for self-discovery, not as a definitive label. Combine it with other tools and personal reflection for the best results. Remember, your personality is a dynamic, evolving story — the quiz just helps you read the first few chapters! Curious about your rarest personality? Don’t forget to check out our detailed guide on What Is the Rarest 16 Personality? Top 10 Types Revealed (2025).

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About the 16 Personalities Quiz Answered

red and white door

What are the 16 personality types according to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator?

The MBTI categorizes people into 16 personality types based on four dichotomies:

  • Introversion (I) vs. Extraversion (E): Where you focus your energy.
  • Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N): How you perceive information.
  • Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F): How you make decisions.
  • Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P): How you approach structure in life.

Each type is a unique combination of these preferences, such as INTJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging) or ESFP (Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving). These types describe patterns in behavior, motivation, and interaction styles.

Read more about “What Is the Rarest 16 Personality? Top 10 Types Revealed (2025) 🦄”

How do I determine my personality type using the 16 personalities quiz?

To determine your type, you answer a series of questions designed to reveal your natural preferences in the four dichotomies. The quiz analyzes your responses and assigns you a four-letter code representing your personality type. For best accuracy:

  • Answer honestly based on your natural tendencies, not how you wish to be.
  • Take your time and avoid rushing.
  • Consider retaking the quiz after some time to check consistency.

Online platforms like 16Personalities.com offer free, user-friendly quizzes that provide detailed type descriptions and insights.

What are the differences between the 16 personality types and which one am I?

Each personality type differs in how it processes information, makes decisions, and interacts socially. For example:

  • Analysts (like INTJ, ENTP) are strategic, logical, and love intellectual challenges.
  • Diplomats (like INFJ, ENFP) are empathetic, idealistic, and focused on harmony.
  • Sentinels (like ISTJ, ESFJ) are practical, organized, and dependable.
  • Explorers (like ISFP, ESTP) are spontaneous, adaptable, and action-oriented.

To discover your type, take the quiz and explore the detailed profiles. Reflect on which descriptions resonate most with your personality and life experiences.

Read more about “Discover Your True Self: The 16 Personality Types Test Explained (2025) 🧠”

Can the 16 personalities quiz accurately predict my strengths, weaknesses, and career paths?

The quiz offers valuable insights into your natural preferences, which can highlight potential strengths and challenges. For example, an ENTJ might excel in leadership roles, while an ISFP might thrive in creative fields. However, it’s important to remember:

  • The quiz is a guide, not a guarantee. Human behavior is complex and influenced by many factors beyond personality type.
  • Scientific critiques highlight that MBTI-based quizzes have limited predictive power for job performance or life outcomes.
  • Use the results as a starting point for self-reflection and career exploration, not as a strict roadmap.

For more nuanced career advice, explore our Career Choices and Personality resources.

How reliable and valid is the 16 personalities quiz compared to other personality assessments?

While the 16 personalities quiz (based on MBTI) is widely popular and accessible, it has faced criticism regarding scientific reliability and validity:

  • Studies show low test-retest reliability, meaning results can change over time.
  • The MBTI lacks strong empirical support compared to models like the Big Five personality traits, which have better scientific backing.
  • Despite this, many find the quiz useful for self-awareness and communication.

For a more scientifically robust assessment, consider exploring the Big Five model or consulting licensed psychologists.

Can personality types change over time or with experience?

Personality is generally stable but not fixed. Life experiences, personal growth, and changing circumstances can influence how traits are expressed. The 16 personalities quiz captures your current preferences, but these can evolve. This is why retaking the quiz after some time can sometimes yield different results. Embrace your personality as a dynamic journey, not a static label.

Explore these trusted sources to deepen your understanding and verify the insights shared here.

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob leads Personality Types™’ editorial vision, guiding a seasoned, cross-disciplinary team of personality theorists, counselors, and behaviorists to make the science of personality usable in everyday life.
He sets the bar for accuracy, clarity, and compassion across the publication, ensuring every piece helps readers understand themselves and others more deeply—at home, at work, and in relationships.

Under Jacob’s direction, the site bridges rigorous frameworks and real-world application, covering MBTI, the Big Five, the Enneagram, DISC, and emerging archetypes in a way that’s both nuanced and practical. He also oversees development of self-discovery tools like the 16 Personality Types test and comprehensive guides that readers return to again and again.

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