A Comprehensive Guide to the Cognitive Functions

What are the cognitive functions? Chance are if you’ve been reading about personality type for long you’ve heard the term here and there. It can feel annoying to see people throw around terms like Fi, Si, Te, or Ne and have no idea what they’re talking about. “Speak English!” I hear some people say when people in the typology world start talking about cognitive functions. With that in mind, I thought I’d write up an article that explains the cognitive functions in a way that (I hope) is easy to understand.

Let’s get started!

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Estimated reading time: 23 minutes

Before You Begin

Keep in mind that the descriptions in this article apply to the cognitive functions in their pure form. If we’re talking about Introverted Intuition, we’re talking about it alone; not blended with Extraverted Feeling or Extraverted Thinking.

The dominant function in someone’s cognitive “stack” is the one they can relate to the most. It comes naturally to them, like breathing, so they may not even think much of it. On the other hand, the functions lower in their stack may feel less accessible, although you do use them occasionally. Just as you use your right and left hand, but one is more easy and natural to use, so you use all the cognitive functions, but the ones higher up in your stack feel more accessible.

What is a cognitive function stack?

Good question! A function stack is essentially a list of the four primary cognitive functions you use in your day-to-day life. The dominant function is the one that comes most naturally and feels most like living and breathing without having to even try. The auxiliary function supports the dominant function and serves as a helpful backup or co-pilot to the dominant. Your tertiary function is less mature than the dominant or auxiliary function, and has an almost childlike quality to it. The inferior function is one you aspire to use well, but it often feels a bit out of reach and tricky to harness in an effective way.

As an example, let’s look at the ISTJ cognitive function stack:

Dominant function: Introverted Sensing (Si)
Auxiliary function: Extraverted Thinking (Te)
Tertiary function: Introverted Feeling (Fi)
Inferior Function: Extraverted Intuition (Ne)

The ISTJ will most relate to Introverted Sensing, followed by Extraverted Thinking, and Introverted Feeling. They may have a harder time relating to Extraverted intuition or the other cognitive functions not in their primary stack (like Introverted Intuition, Introverted Thinking, Extraverted Feeling, and Extraverted Sensing).

The Perceiving Cognitive Functions

Sensing and intuition are perceiving cognitive functions. These functions determine how we take in information and which criteria we give priority. Remember, everyone uses both sensing and intuition, you just prefer one over the other.

Sensing and intuition can each have different attitudes. You can have introverted or extraverted sensing and introverted or extraverted intuition. We’ll go into the differences between all of those functions here. Let’s start with sensing.

Introverted Sensing (Si):

Introverted sensing, also known as Si, is a cognitive function that delves into the inner realm of personal experience and impressions. It possesses a keen awareness of details, both in the surrounding environment and within the body itself. Introverted sensors have a propensity for comparing and contrasting the past with the present, adeptly recognizing differences and changes in patterns. They’re often the first to notice alterations in a room or inconsistencies in someone’s behavior. Moreover, they possess a heightened sensitivity to internal bodily sensations like hunger, thirst, and fatigue.

Introverted sensors recall favored memories in detail, and those memories each have highly subjective meanings to them. They might look at an apple tree and remember climbing an apple tree in their childhood, the smell of their grandmother’s apple pie, or the feeling of a cool autumn breeze. They might remember the exact details of a motorcycle engine, and how the pieces feel and fit together perfectly.

“Introverted sensation apprehends the background of the physical world rather than its surface…Such a consciousness would see the becoming and passing away of things simultaneously with their momentary existence in the present, and not only that, it would also see what was before their coming and will be after their passing hence…We could say that introverted sensation transmits an image which does not so much reproduce the object as spread over it the patina of age-old subjective experience and the shimmer of events still unborn.”
– Carl Jung, Psychological Types

Introverted Sensing is often simplistically described as a mere affinity for tradition and the past. However, as Jung’s description reveals, it encompasses much more than that. This cognitive function possesses a heightened awareness of the passage of time, the memories associated with the tangible world, and the ephemeral nature of the present moment. It has a keen eye for how past influences present and future and discerns how circumstances can influence our experiences and perceptions.

Si-users are great at coming up with effective solutions based on their specialized database of experiences and memories. They learn quickly from mistakes, rarely making the same mistake twice. Their keen insight into events and people stems from their detailed memory and knack for spotting changes and differences. Because they are so attuned to the details of the world around them, they can quickly pick up on shifts in behavior and surprise others with their ability to describe details they weren’t even aware of!

When it comes to behavior, introverted sensing types are known for their reliability. They prefer routine and predictability, and their communication style is often clear and sequential. They pay attention to important details and facts, seeking trusted information that has stood the test of time. Reflecting on their favorite experiences and memories brings them joy. Trust and reliability hold great significance for introverted sensing types. They have a strong aversion to inconsistency and wishy-washy behavior, valuing the dependability of those who stay true to their word. It may take time for them to open up, but once they do, they become incredibly loyal friends.

Types That Use Introverted Sensing:
Dominant introverted sensing: ISFJ and ISTJ
Auxiliary introverted sensing: ESFJ and ESTJ
Tertiary introverted sensing: INFP and INTP
Inferior introverted sensing: ENFP and ENTP

Find out more about introverted sensing in my article, The Timeless Power of Introverted Sensing.

Extraverted Sensing (Se):

Extraverted sensing (Se for short) is a cognitive function that excels in gathering information about the current world in its objective and literal reality. It derives energy and pleasure from direct interactions with the external world, be it people, objects, nature, or events. Among all cognitive functions, Se is the most attuned to the present moment, solely focused on collecting pure, unfiltered sensory information without being influenced by past or future associations

Where the introverted sensor would see a tree and recall all their memories and associations with a similar tree, the extraverted sensor would see the tree in all its exquisite detail, exactly for what it is. As a result, they would notice much more detail than the other types would and they would be able to respond faster in the moment to changes and new information.

Because Se-users are so energized and so tuned in to the current experience, they tend to have fast reflexes, notice opportunities right away, and be quick on their feet. They have a realistic cleverness that keeps them ahead of the game in many areas of life.

“No other type can equal the extraverted sensation type for realism. His sense for objective facts is extraordinarily developed.”
– Carl Jung, Psychological Types

Extraverted Sensing is often oversimplified in explanations as simply using our senses (“don’t we all?”). However, there is much more to Se than mere physical awareness. When Se is engaged, individuals maintain a heightened level of attention that would overwhelm others personality types. So, it’s not just about using our senses, but about the depth of focus and awareness that sets Se apart.

Se-users are amazing at quickly picking up knowledge through experience, and they have a natural knack for learning languages. They’re great at giving accurate reports and objective observations, effortlessly coming up with practical solutions to challenges. Their innate talent for fitting in, adapting to different environments, and staying fully engaged helps them discover new insights and support others in practical ways.

When it comes to behavior, extraverted sensors exhibit spontaneity, adaptability, a thirst for adventure, and a heightened awareness of their bodies and surroundings. They thrive on taking action and excel as hands-on, kinesthetic learners. In times of crisis, they shine by swiftly responding to challenges with practical solutions. These individuals are typically optimistic and possess a unique talent for helping others appreciate the beauty of everyday moments..

Types That Use Extraverted Sensing:
Dominant extraverted sensing: ESTP and ESFP
Auxiliary extraverted sensing: ISTP and ISFP
Tertiary extraverted sensing: ENTJ and ENFJ
Inferior extraverted sensing: INTJ and INFJ

Find out more about extraverted sensing in my article, 10 Signs That You Might Be an Extraverted Sensor.

Introverted Intuition (Ni):

Introverted Intuition (or Ni for short) is an information-gathering process that focuses on the inner, subjective world of the unconscious to find connections and abstract relationships between the unconscious and the outer world. It is always searching for underlying meanings, symbols, and abstract connections. Sound confusing? Well, it is to a lot of people, and rightfully so because very few people favor this cognitive function. Only approximately 7.9% of the US population are introverted intuitive dominant or auxiliary types.

Ni is the only perceiving cognitive function that thrives best in solitude, away from external input. It works its magic in calm and minimally stimulating environments. It’s unpredictable, often striking with sudden “flashes” of insight or awareness about the meaning of things or future outcomes. Always focused on the future, it’s less concerned with the present moment unless it connects to some meaning or insight about the future.

The Ni-user is always trying to discern the big picture, the “dance of the universe”, and ask itself “what else is going on here? what’s being hidden?”. When people use Introverted Intuition, unconscious images and symbols seem to play before their mind’s eye with startling accuracy and, according to Building Blocks of Personality Type, “unconscious images are as real to them as anything tangible.” A Ni-user sees the world and notices objects, but the only thing he or she cares about is what meaning, insight, or symbolism that object has released inside of them. For this reason, Ni-users can seem either very detached from the environment or very intensely focused on something random that has inspired them.

“The introverted intuitive moves from image to image, chasing after every possibility in the teeming womb of the unconscious.”
– Carl Jung, Psychological Types

When you’re trying to identify introverted intuition in another person, you will often observe their frequent use of theoretical language. Explaining their insights can pose a challenge for them, as their perceptions stem not from the tangible world, but from the unconscious realm where perception and language may not always align. They typically rely less on concrete data in their communication, which can lead to frustration when attempting to articulate themselves. Instead, they often find it easier to convey their meaning through the use of metaphors, abstract concepts, or symbolic art.

When it comes to completing projects or tasks, Ni-users always strive for a fresh and innovative approach. They have a tendency to disdain the “tried and true” techniques and instead prefer to experiment with new methods rather than relying on established ones.

The Ni-user’s affinity for complexity may sometimes lead others to perceive them as unnecessarily complicating matters. Ni-users perceive everything as interconnected and multi-layered, and they take the time to thoroughly examine things from various perspectives and angles. This inclination can sometimes cause them to appear slow in responding to questions. While you may be engaged in a ten-minute conversation, the Ni-user might still be analyzing what was said at the three or four minute mark

Introverted intuitives tend to play devil’s advocate and be individualistic in their perceptions. Their visions into what is going on beneath the surface are often uncannily accurate. Their knack for strategic planning and seeing possible outcomes without being restricted by time, place, or concrete data, allows them to see profound insights that are simultaneously mysterious and transformational.

Types That Use Introverted Intuition:
Dominant introverted intuition: INTJ and INFJ
Auxiliary introverted intuition: ENTJ and ENFJ
Tertiary introverted intuition: ISTP and ISFP
Inferior introverted intuition: ESTP and ESFP

Find out more about introverted intuition in my article, 10 Signs That You Might Be an Introverted Intuitive.

Extraverted Intuition (Ne):

Extraverted Intuition (or Ne for short) is an information-gathering cognitive function that focuses on finding theoretical connections, relationships, and possibilities. It is stimulated by objects, people, and events in the environment and wants to generate real-world possibilities. The Ne-user easily grasps how everything can be transformed and views everything in the context of its associations with everything else. “Everything is connected and anything is possible” to the extraverted intuitive.

The Ne-user is almost always focused on the future and the “big picture”. This makes them inspiring to many people who can get stuck in the problems of day-to-day life. Unlike the introverted intuitive, who’s visions are often more internalized, the extraverted intuitive can often enthusiastically and effortlessly express their new ideas and possibilities.  In fact, they often love brainstorming and jumping from idea to idea with other people, finding more and more possibilities and inspirations the longer they talk. They are often seen as quick of mind because of how they make connections so rapidly.

“(Extraverted) Intuition tries to apprehend the widest range of possibilities, since only through envisioning possibilities is intuition fully satisfied.”
– Carl Jung, Psychological Types

Extraverted intuitives are known for having an entrepreneurial spirit; they aren’t interested in following a pre-ordained template for success and they are highly independent. They are excellent at evaluating potential, enlisting enthusiastic people to their team, and taking risks. They see mistakes as learning opportunities and would rather risk failure than face a routine or “safe” existence. Speaking of change, Ne-users enjoy change and are able to function very well in atmospheres of confusion where a new option or possibility needs to be found in the midst of chaos. Like Se-users, Ne-users are adaptable and spontaneous; but while the Se-user is more in tune with the concrete world and and physical realities, the Ne-user is more in tune with the abstract world and theoretical possibilities.

The Ne-user is a visionary theorist who wants to change the world, realize potential, and get others to join them in their pursuits. They perceive everything on a global scale and find connection threads spread between everyone and everything. Their insight gives them an ability to show people new perspectives and teach in inspiring and creative ways.

Types That Use Extraverted Intuition:
Dominant extraverted intuition: ENTP and ENFP
Auxiliary extraverted intuition: INTP and INFP
Tertiary extraverted intuition: ESTJ and ESFJ
Inferior extraverted intuition: ISTJ and ISFJ

Find out more about extraverted intuition in my article, 10  Signs That You Might Be an Extraverted Intuitive.

The Judging Cognitive Functions

The judging cognitive functions are what we use when we make decisions. More specifically, the judging functions are introverted thinking, extraverted thinking, introverted feeling, and extraverted feeling.

There are certain things that both thinking types share (they both value objective logic, and they tend to use impersonal analysis when making a decision). There are certain things that both feeling types share (they both make decisions by assessing values and personal impact, and they both value empathy and harmony).

Remember, everyone uses both thinking and feeling, but you will automatically give priority to one over the other and thus one will be more natural to you.

Introverted Thinking (Ti):

Introverted Thinking (or Ti for short) is a decision-making process that uses subjective principles and logical truths to create original systems, categories, and frameworks. Ti is extremely focused on accuracy, internal precision, and thorough logical evaluation.

The Ti-user has a grid-like system of categories in their mind that they are constantly expanding on and revising. Whenever they get new information they add it to that framework or revise their entire framework to make room for new data. They only accept truths they have analyzed and evaluated and held up to intense scrutiny. Like a camera that keeps zooming in and refining its focus, the introverted thinker goes through cycles of thinking, each time getting more precise, more accurate, and in the end finding the most precise category to fit that data into.

One of the major differences between the introverted thinker and the extraverted thinker is what they do with objective logic. The introverted thinker applies objective logic to a highly subjective internal framework and set of principles. The extraverted thinker applies objective logic to the outer world; to policies, operational guidelines, and the environment. The introverted thinker seeks precision and order internally, where the extraverted thinker seeks order and efficiency externally. The introverted thinker cares more about meeting an internal set of standards and competing with him/herself, and the extraverted thinker is more focused on meeting an external standard and competing with others. This can show up in Te-users caring more about grades and performances on tests, whereas Ti-users only care about those things if they’re competing to prove something to themselves.  Introverted thinkers are also less likely to “talk out” their logic when they make a decision. Their process is more internalized and private.

“He (the introverted thinker) will follow his ideas like the extravert, but in the reverse direction: inwards and not outwards. Intensity is his aim, not extensity.”
– Carl Jung, Psychological Types

Introverted thinkers believe strongly in fairness and truth. They don’t want anything sugarcoated or any personal bias to get in their way. When they make decisions they try to stay impersonal so that they can avoid playing favorites, getting emotionally involved, or making a decision that might not be fair or logical. They can seem critical to other types because they are more likely to critique first and forget to praise. This doesn’t mean they don’t care about the people involved in a decision.

Ti users are excellent at thorough analysis; they are energized by analyzing challenging problems or technical puzzles. They are skilled troubleshooters and are keenly aware of logical inconsistencies and loopholes. When they speak, they use their words sparingly, getting to the core issue or concept and using as precise language as possible.

Types That Use Introverted Thinking:
Dominant introverted thinking: ISTP and INTP
Auxiliary introverted thinking: ESTP and ENTP
Tertiary introverted thinking: ISFJ and INFJ
Inferior introverted thinking: ESFJ and ENFJ

Find out more about introverted thinking in my article, 10 Signs That You Might Be an Introverted Thinker.

Extraverted Thinking (Te):

Extraverted Thinking (or Te for short) is a decision-making process that focuses on using logical binary judgments to organize, evaluate, and assign information in the outer world. Te seeks to structure the outer world and sort everything into its proper place using logical systems and rules. Te may seem detached from people, but it actually uses objective logic and structure to take care of people and make life more efficient for everyone.

Te-users enjoy having systems that explain how things interact and relate, like the law of physics. They like to externalize their thought processes, whether it’s through talking, making outlines, or using diagrams to show what they’re thinking. They strive to be clear in their standards and create systems with a wide scope to apply them to as many situations as they can.

Te-users excel in planning. They thrive on having a comprehensive strategy for every conceivable scenario, and they meticulously craft contingency plans to ensure they are always prepared. When faced with decisions, they strive for clarity and simplicity, avoiding prolonged contemplation or ambiguity. Ambiguity and paradoxes are a source of frustration for Te-types because they make things take longer and get in the way of clarity and decision-making.

Task completion serves as a powerful motivator for the Te-type, driving them to swiftly act upon the facts and data at hand. The use of checklists is particularly gratifying to them, as the mere act of ticking off an item brings a sense of accomplishment.

“This type will, by definition, be a man whose constant endeavor…is to make all his activities dependent on intellectual conclusions, which in the last resort are always oriented by objective data, whether these be external facts or generally accepted ideas. This type of man elevates objective reality, or an objectively oriented intellectual formula, into the ruling principle not only for himself but for his whole environment.”
– Carl Jung, Psychological Types

Extraverted thinkers are often involved in creating laws, guidelines, and/or rules, and this is one of the areas in which they differ from introverted thinkers. Introverted thinkers care mainly for inner control of themselves, and are less likely to pay attention to established rules or creating rules for other people. The extraverted thinker likes creating a structure and set of rules to deploy outwardly.

Te-users are usually very concerned with fairness and justice. They believe in equality and taking care of people by giving them optimized plans and easily-usable outlines. They are often misunderstood as being bossy or judgmental. Because Te tends to think critically and see flaws and errors that need correcting, the Te-user can run the risk of telling everyone how to improve and manage their lives without realizing their advice is undesired in certain cases. Te-users can also run the risk of jumping to conclusions too quickly, particularly ETJs who value decisiveness and tend to rush to make a decision. It can be helpful for them to consider their auxiliary process (either sensing or intuition) to look at the data more carefully or the perspectives involved before forming a conclusion.

Overall, Te-users are highly goal-oriented, logical, and productive. They are excellent at giving others a starting place for their work and outlining effective courses of action. They are usually honest, fair, and reasonable people who value hard work and loyalty.

Types That Use Extraverted Thinking:
Dominant extraverted thinking: ESTJ and ENTJ
Auxiliary extraverted thinking: ISTJ and INTJ
Tertiary extraverted thinking: ESFP and ENFP
Inferior extraverted thinking: ISFP and INFP

Find out more about extraverted thinking in my article, 10 Signs That You Might Be an Extraverted Thinker.

Introverted Feeling (Fi):

Introverted Feeling (or Fi for short) is a decision-making cognitive function that focuses on the internal, subjective world of values and personal ethics. Fi seeks individuality, authenticity, and personal meaning. It wants to act and make choices that promote inner harmony and tranquility. It holds non-negotiable core values and while it’s open-minded to other people’s lifestyles and choices, it won’t tolerate violation of its own core values and beliefs.

Fi is the most subjective of all the decision-making cognitive functions. It is focused on individual truths, individual ethics, and individual tastes and preferences. The Fi-user is determined not to be influenced by the values or beliefs of the “collective” or culture. They want to be authentic and individual and aren’t afraid to fight against social norms that they feel are oppressive or unjust. They often know instinctively when something goes against their morals and will get a “gut” feeling when they are entertaining an idea that violates their values. It can be hard for them to discuss their feelings and beliefs openly. Because their values are so personal and private they can struggle to find the words that clearly demonstrate them in a concrete way. As such, Fi-users are often drawn to artwork or music that demonstrates their passions and values in an artistic way.

“As they are mainly guided by their subjective feelings, their true motives generally remain hidden. Their outward demeanor is harmonious, inconspicuous, giving an impression of pleasing repose, or of sympathetic response, with no desire to affect others, to impress, influence, or change them in any way.”
– Carl Jung, Psychological Types

As Carl Jung says above, introverted feeling types aren’t driven to change others or make them conform to their beliefs. They have a serene, sincere, “live and let live” mentality and feel that everyone is entitled to their own values. The exception to this rule is when it comes to their core beliefs. Fi-users can be staunch supporters of a cause or value that they feel strongly about (e.g. animal rights, refugee rights, etc,.). They are often drawn to underdogs and championing people who they feel are oppressed or marginalized. Their cause will vary from individual to individual, however.

When approaching a situation, Fi users consider the value and worth of various projects, actions, commitments, and decisions. They consistently evaluate their choices against their inner beliefs and intentions for their lives. Taking the time for careful examination, they demonstrate skill in addressing the core of an issue. In a world marked by conflict and insincerity, they strive for peace, honesty, and balance.

Fi-users are skilled at providing ethical insights to communities, groups and organizations. They are non-judgmental and emotionally supportive to others. They are also known for their excellent listening skills.

Types That Use Introverted Feeling:
Dominant introverted feeling: ISFP and INFP
Auxiliary introverted feeling: ESFP and ENFP
Tertiary introverted feeling: ISTJ and INTJ
Inferior introverted feeling: ESTJ and ENTJ

Find out more about introverted feeling in my article, How You Use Introverted Feeling Based On Its Location in  Your Function Stack.

Extraverted Feeling (Fe):

Extraverted Feeling (Fe) is a decision-making cognitive function that focuses on making choices or taking action to create harmony in the environment. It takes into account cultural value systems, social standards, and the effects every decision has on other people. It is actively concerned for the welfare of others, to the extent that the Fe-user will put their own needs and desires last in order to create harmony for people outside themselves. Outer harmony for others equals inner harmony for the Fe user in many cases.

Fe-users are primarily motivated to understand the needs, desires, and values of other people. Healthy extraverted feeling is generous, sincere, and extremely empathetic. Unhealthy extraverted feeling can be manipulative or phony in an attempt to control the environment.

Extraverted feeling focuses on the impact every decision will have on “the group” or surrounding people. As a result, Fe-users can tend to overlook their own personal needs and desires to take care of others. According to Building Blocks of Personality Type, “They often have a very hard time focusing on taking care of themselves. It is common for their own physical needs to be neglected until a personal health crisis demands their attention.”

“For anyone who has known feeling only as something subjective, the nature of extraverted feeling will be difficult to grasp, because it has detached itself as much as possible from the subjective factor and subordinated itself entirely to the influence of the object.”
– Carl Jung, Psychological Types

Fe-users are highly attuned to what is considered “appropriate” behavior, often displaying exceptional manners and actively ensuring the comfort of those around them. They willingly go the extra mile to prevent embarrassment or harm to others. In fact, they may even employ self-deprecating humor or make light-hearted jokes at their own expense to alleviate feelings of awkwardness or shame experienced by others.

Another interesting characteristic of Fe-users is their tendency to advocate more for others than for themselves. They assume the role of social crusaders, passionately speaking up for the well-being of various groups, be it their family, workplace, community, or church. When they perceive a threat to the collective or witness mistreatment, they feel compelled to take a stand. However, they are less likely to assert themselves when facing personal challenges alone. It is the needs and interests of others that often motivate them to find their voice and speak out.

Extraverted feelers are always asking themselves whether they “should” or “shouldn’t” do something, and they often seek to confirm their choices and values by talking to other people they trust or respect. Overall, Fe-users are talented at taking care of other people, maintaining harmony, and noticing and bringing out other people’s gifts and strengths.

Types That Use Extraverted Feeling:
Dominant extraverted feeling: ESFJ and ENFJ
Auxiliary extraverted feeling: ISFJ and INFJ
Tertiary extraverted feeling: ESTP and ENTP
Inferior extraverted feeling: ISTP and INTP

Find out more about extraverted feeling in my article, How Do YOU Use Extraverted Feeling?

What Are Your Thoughts?

Do you have any thoughts or experiences with these cognitive functions? Let us know how you experience your personality type with us and other readers in the comments!

Find out more about your personality type in our eBook, Discovering You: Unlocking the Power of Personality Type.

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Sources:

Building Blocks of Personality Type: A Guide to Discovering the Hidden Secrets of the Personality Type Code

Psychological Types (The Collected Works of C. G. Jung, Vol. 6) (Bollingen Series XX)

Understanding Yourself and Others: An Introduction to the Personality Type Code