What is

Crystallized Intelligence

Crystallized intelligence describes using knowledge acquired from past experiences to make decisions in the present. This form of intelligence is based upon facts, skills and information learned in school or certain situations. Psychologist Raymond Cattell first proposed the concept of crystallized intelligence in 1963.

Crystallized intelligence involves drawing upon accumulated knowledge to solve a problem. Examples of crystallized intelligence include recalling historical events, remembering geographical locations and reciting a poem. Crystallized intelligence increases with age and usually stabilizes or continues to increase throughout one’s adult years. This type of intelligence is often contrasted with fluid intelligence.