Intelligence: The Speed and Accuracy Tradeoff in High Aptitude Individuals

Abstract

The relative contributions of mental speed and accuracy measures to Primary Mental Ability (PMA) IQ prediction were studied in 52 high ability students (mean age 16, mean IQ 120). Both speed and accuracy independently predicted IQ, but not speed over and above accuracy. Accuracy was demonstrated to be universally advantageous in IQ performance, but speed to vary according to the test. Superior performance might best be achieved by attention to accuracy at whatever speed the subject is comfortable working.