A tool designed to estimate cognitive ability relative to age uses a simple formula comparing an individual’s performance on a standardized test to the average performance of others in the same age group. For example, if a ten-year-old performs as well as the average twelve-year-old, the estimated mental age is twelve.
While historically employed as a means of interpreting intelligence quotient (IQ) scores, particularly in children, the concept of comparing cognitive performance to age-based norms remains relevant. It provides a readily understandable framework for discussing cognitive development and can be valuable in educational and developmental assessments. This approach allows educators and professionals to tailor interventions and support based on an individual’s developmental stage rather than solely on chronological age. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of this approach and interpret results cautiously, considering various factors influencing cognitive development.