Essay

Explain how factor analysis is applied to structure performance on cognitive assessments into distinct intelligence factors. In your response, identify the two main intelligence factors mentioned in the text and list the specific mental tasks that group into each cluster.

Question: Explain how factor analysis is applied to structure performance on cognitive assessments into distinct intelligence factors. In your response, identify the two main intelligence factors mentioned in the text and list the specific mental tasks that group into each cluster.

Sample answer: Factor analysis is a statistical technique used to organize performance on a wide range of mental tasks into distinct clusters, representing different intelligence factors. The two main factors are mathematical intelligence and verbal intelligence. Tasks like arithmetic, spatial reasoning, and quantitative estimation group into the mathematical cluster, while tasks involving vocabulary, reading comprehension, and grammar form the verbal cluster.

Key points:

  • Factor analysis groups performance on various mental tasks into distinct clusters representing intelligence factors.
  • The mathematical intelligence factor includes tasks like arithmetic, spatial reasoning, and quantitative estimation.
  • The verbal intelligence factor includes tasks like vocabulary, reading comprehension, and grammar.

Rubric: To receive full credit, the answer must: 1) Define how factor analysis is used (grouping mental tasks into clusters/factors). 2) Name both factors: mathematical intelligence and verbal intelligence. 3) Correctly list the tasks associated with each factor (arithmetic, spatial reasoning, and quantitative estimation for mathematical; vocabulary, reading comprehension, and grammar for verbal).

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Updated 2026-05-27

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KPU

Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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