Understanding Cognitive Functions
The building blocks of personality type
What are Cognitive Functions?
Cognitive functions are the mental processes we use to perceive information and make decisions. Each MBTI type uses 4 of the 8 functions in a specific order called a "stack".
Perceiving (N/S)
Perceiving functions (N and S) determine how we take in information - through intuition or sensing.
Judging (T/F)
Judging functions (T and F) determine how we make decisions - through thinking or feeling.
Introverted
Introverted functions focus inward on subjective experience.
Extraverted
Extraverted functions focus outward on the objective world.
The 8 Functions
Introverted Intuition
Ni synthesizes information into unified visions and deep insights. It perceives underlying patterns and future implications, often arriving at conclusions through unconscious processing. Ni users have strong intuitions about what will happen and work toward singular goals.
Extraverted Intuition
Ne generates possibilities and connections in the external world. It sees potential everywhere, linking disparate ideas and exploring what could be. Ne users are creative, enthusiastic about new ideas, and constantly brainstorming alternatives.
Introverted Sensing
Si stores and recalls detailed sensory experiences from the past. It compares present situations to past experiences, valuing tradition, reliability, and proven methods. Si users have excellent memory for detail and prefer stability and consistency.
Extraverted Sensing
Se engages fully with the present moment and physical environment. It notices concrete details, responds quickly to opportunities, and seeks sensory experiences. Se users are action-oriented, adaptable, and skilled at reading immediate situations.
Introverted Thinking
Ti seeks internal logical consistency and precision. It builds complex mental frameworks to understand how things work, constantly refining models to achieve greater accuracy. Ti users think independently, valuing truth over consensus.
Extraverted Thinking
Te organizes the external world for efficiency and results. It seeks objective, measurable standards and practical solutions. Te users naturally take charge, implement systems, and drive toward goals with decisive action.
Introverted Feeling
Fi evaluates based on deeply held personal values and authentic self-expression. It creates a rich inner emotional landscape and strong sense of identity. Fi users have firm moral convictions and stay true to themselves even under pressure.
Extraverted Feeling
Fe connects with others' emotional states and maintains group harmony. It naturally reads social dynamics and responds to collective needs. Fe users excel at bringing people together, creating positive environments, and navigating social complexities.