Key Concepts

Spatial Visual Intelligence

Understanding Spatial Visual Intelligence*

The ability to manipulate objects within space, and move objects around with precision.

People with high Spatial Visual Intelligence have an aptitude for manipulating objects within a particular space and moving things around with precision. They learn by watching and observing. They can recognize shapes and colors, and can reproduce them through artwork. They can also learn from and encode information in graphs, charts, diagrams, and other graphic or visual representations. They perceive and produce mental imagery, and generate mental images for memory and recall. They can navigate their way effectively and easily visualize things in three dimensions. They can assemble bits and pieces together such as placing people appropriately for an act and positioning furniture in a given space. When it comes to inner space (inside your head, that is), they can easily see how things fit together. They enjoy doodling, drawing, painting, designing, and other visual creative activities.

Characteristics of Spatial Visual Intelligence

People with strong Spatial Visual Intelligence are inclined to:

  • Visualize things in three dimensions
  • Navigate vehicles with skill
  • Take things apart and put them back together
  • Economize on space when packing or storing things
  • Repair things when they break
  • Create models
  • Find their way without a map

Traits of Spatial Visual Intelligence

  • Sense of navigation
  • Visualization of objects
  • Sense of proportion
  • Sense of distance
  • Recognition of faces or objects
  • Recognition of scenes

Famous People with High Spatial Visual Intelligence

  • Galileo Galilei (physicist/astronomer)
  • Gustave Eiffel (architect/engineer)
  • Patricia Urquiola (architect/interior designer)
  • Emily Roebling (structural engineer)
  • Leonardo da Vinci (architect/cartographer)

Careers that correspond

Camera operator, jewellery designer, craft artist, computer game designer, painter, sculptor, fine arts teacher.

Hobbies that correspond

Candle making, toy making, craft making, photography, dancing.

*While working with students and making use of the MNTEST to guide students into professions, Steven Rudolph encountered limitations with the Visual Intelligence category defined by Howard Gardner. This led him to splitting this intelligence into two: Graphic and Spatial Visual Intelligence.

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