Erica Whiting
·she/her • Licensed Clinical Psychologist • AATBS EPPP Coach

EPPP Study Aid: Crystallized & Fluid Intelligence Across the Lifespan

At the core of cognitive testing are the concepts of crystallized and fluid intelligence. For the EPPP, it will be helpful to not only know what differentiates one from the other but also how these forms of intelligence present over time as we age. 

Crystallized Intelligence

Learned knowledge and skills that are impacted by educational and cultural experiences. It increases across the lifespan. 

Fluid Intelligence

The cognitive processes that allow people to solve problems such as working memory, processing speed, abstract thinking and reasoning. It is generally not dependent on educational or cultural experiences. Fluid intelligence tends to peak early and declines in adulthood. 

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