What does an intelligence test primarily assess?

An intelligence test primarily assesses deviation from average cognitive performance, which is a critical component in understanding an individual's cognitive abilities relative to a norm or standard. These tests are designed to evaluate various cognitive functions such as reasoning, problem-solving skills, memory, and comprehension. They often provide a score that indicates where an individual's intelligence stands on a normative scale, allowing for comparisons with the general population.

In contrast to other choices, personality traits and social skills relate more to emotional and social intelligence rather than cognitive capacity. Financial intelligence pertains to an individual's understanding and management of financial concepts, which does not fall under the scope of traditional intelligence assessments. Lastly, physical coordination and abilities are evaluated through different kinds of tests, such as agility or motor skills assessments, which focus on physical performance rather than cognitive functioning. Thus, the essence of intelligence testing lies in its focus on cognitive performance, making it a vital tool in psychological assessments.