What Is Emotional Intelligence (EQ)?
Emotional intelligence — often called EQ — is the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and reason with emotions. First described as a formal ability model by psychologists Peter Salovey and John Mayer (1990) and popularized by Daniel Goleman's 1995 book Emotional Intelligence, EQ encompasses five interconnected domains: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.
Research suggests that EQ is a stronger predictor of success in relationships, leadership, and well-being than IQ alone. Unlike IQ, emotional intelligence is a learnable skill set — it can be developed and strengthened throughout life. This 40-question assessment presents everyday statements and asks you to rate how accurately each describes you on a 5-point scale from "Strongly disagree" to "Strongly agree." Your answers produce a normalized 0-100 score for each domain plus an overall EQ score.
This test is based on the public-domain emotional intelligence frameworks of Salovey & Mayer and Goleman. It is an educational and self-reflection tool, not a clinical diagnostic instrument. Emotional intelligence is a skill set, not a medical measure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Emotional Intelligence (EQ) test?
A 40-question assessment measuring your emotional intelligence across five domains — self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills — based on Goleman's widely referenced public-domain framework.
How long does the test take?
The test includes 40 questions and typically takes about 12 minutes to complete.
Is emotional intelligence a clinical diagnosis?
No. Emotional intelligence is a learnable skill set, not a clinical or medical diagnosis. This assessment is an educational tool for self-reflection and personal growth.
Are my results private?
Yes. Your answers are processed in your browser and never sent to a server. We only store what is necessary to deliver your paid report.
Can emotional intelligence be improved?
Yes. Unlike IQ, EQ is a set of skills that can be developed throughout life. The growth tips in your report are designed to help you strengthen specific domains.
Scientific Basis & References
Your score is based on the constructs defined by the published works below. We cite the original theory, key supporting or critical research, and the evidence limits you should know about.
- Salovey, P., & Mayer, J. D. (1990). Emotional intelligence. Imagination, Cognition and Personality, 9(3), 185–211.
- Mayer, J. D., & Salovey, P. (1997). What is emotional intelligence? In P. Salovey & D. Sluyter (Eds.), Emotional Development and Emotional Intelligence: Educational Implications. Basic Books.
- Schutte, N. S., Malouff, J. M., Hall, L. E., Haggerty, D. J., Cooper, J. T., Golden, C. J., & Dornheim, L. (1998). Development and validation of a measure of emotional intelligence. Personality and Individual Differences, 25(2), 167–177.
- Brackett, M. A., Rivers, S. E., & Salovey, P. (2011). Emotional intelligence: Implications for personal, social, academic, and workplace success. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 5(1), 88–103.
PulseTrait items are original wording inspired by these public frameworks. Self-report scores vary with mood, context, and self-perception, and this questionnaire is not a clinical diagnostic instrument.