What Is Introverted Thinking? Everything You Need to Know

• Introverted Thinking is a Myers-Briggs cognitive function where individuals use logic to make decisions internally.
• Introverted Thinkers tend to be highly independent and take their time before making decisions to analyze every possible scenario.
• You’re likely an Introverted Thinker if you’re an INTP, ISTP, ENTP, ESTP, INFJ, ISFJ, ENFJ, or ESFJ.

What is Introverted Thinking?

Introverted Thinking uses logic to solve problems internally. Introverted Thinkers use their heads rather than their hearts when making decisions. They focus on solving problems piece-by-piece, objectively and internally, before vocalizing their choices or ideas. Those with an Introverted Thinking (Ti) cognitive function like to rationalize their decisions and spend more time thinking than talking. They analyze the world around them carefully before jumping to conclusions. Introverted Thinking Myers-Briggs types include INTP, ISTP, ENTP, ESTP, INFJ, ISFJ, ENFJ, and ESFJ. INTP and ISTP have Introverted Thinking as a dominant function, meaning they show the strongest Ti traits. ENTP and ESTP have it as an auxiliary or secondary function. INFJ and ISFJ as a tertiary function. ENFJ and ESFJ as an inferior function. Introverted Thinking is different from Introverted Feeling (Fi). The Thinking preference refers to those who focus on analysis and logic when making decisions, whereas those with a Feeling preference focus on values and relationships.

Common Introverted Thinking Traits

They’re independent. Above all else, Introverted Thinkers are self-reliant. They don’t rely on anyone else to help them make decisions—they do all the thinking themselves. They know their strengths and weaknesses and can come to conclusions adequately on their own. For example, an Introverted Thinker prefers to work on their own than with a group. Typically, Introverted Thinkers need time and space alone to think through situations. Because of this, they’ll often excuse themselves from conflicts or scenarios to make thoughtful decisions on their own.

They take their time making decisions. Introverted Thinkers rarely jump to conclusions or make spontaneous decisions. They like to thoroughly think through their choices, analyzing each possible outcome to ensure they make the right decision. For instance, if you ask an Introverted Thinker if they want to go on a trip, they’ll spend a few days mulling over the decision, looking up flights, and considering the pros and cons of every activity. This trait can make an Introverted Thinker seem indecisive, even when trying to be decisive.

They enjoy learning new things. Introverted Thinkers are always curious. They’re constantly seeking new information and teaching themselves new things. They enjoy falling down rabbit holes on interesting and niche topics. For example, say an Introverted Thinker watches a documentary on a significant historical event. If the topic fascinates them, they’ll likely go into a deep dive and consume everything there is to know about the topic. More often than not, Introverted Thinkers prefer learning at their own pace. Because of this, they may find conventional schooling tedious, cumbersome, or boring.

They think outside the box. An Introverted Thinker’s curiosity can lead them down interesting and unique paths. Because of this, they often find unconventional ways to solve problems. They analyze every solution possible before making a decision, helping them make the most logical and effective choice possible. For instance, if an Introverted Thinker breaks their pencil and don’t have a pencil sharpener, they could do the obvious thing and switch to a pen or other writing utensil; however, they’ll likely pull out a sharp object (like a scissor or pocket knife) to sharpen the pencil themselves. This trait often manifests in original theories and ideas, which is why Introverted Thinkers make exceptional inventors and problem-solvers.

They overthink. More often than not, Introverted Thinkers are considered overthinkers. Because they spend lots of time thinking, they easily see more than one solution to a problem and can get lost in their own fantasies. They may find themselves running in circles about a small decision because they see too many possibilities. For example, an Introverted Thinker may have a hard time deciding what to cook for dinner because they compile too many meal possibilities from the items in their pantry. Sometimes, this trait can have a negative impact on an Introverted Thinker's life. They may start to second-guess their choices and over-analyze situations and events.

They think carefully about their words. An Introverted Thinker doesn’t beat around the bush. They likely use precise and direct language to express their wants and needs. Miscommunication is their worst nightmare, so they’ll be incredibly particular with how things are said to avoid any possible mistakes. For instance, if an Introverted Thinker isn’t satisfied with a colleague’s work, they’ll practice what they’ll say carefully in their head before saying it aloud to ensure their critique is taken seriously. This may make an Introverted Thinker seem bossy or stuck up, but they’re not trying to be so! They simply know what they want and need to ensure that what they’re thinking comes to fruition correctly.

What is Extroverted Thinking?

Extroverted Thinking uses the outside world to make logical decisions. Extroverted Thinkers get the best ideas from the world around them. They prefer to vocalize their opinions and thoughts before making concrete decisions. They enjoy planning, organizing, and presenting ideas to large groups. Socializing and communication fuels Extroverted Thinking (Te). Because of this, Extroverted Thinkers often make excellent leaders and teammates. Extroverted Thinkers are extremely decisive, dislike procrastination, are always prepared, and prefer set routines and rules. Extroverted Myers-Briggs types include ENTJ, ESTJ, INTJ, ISTJ, ENFP, ESFP, INFP, and ISFP. ENTJ and ESTJ have Extroverted Thinking as a dominant function. INTJ and ISTJ as an auxiliary function. ENFP and ESFP as a tertiary function. INFP and ISFP as an inferior function.

Introverted Thinking vs. Extroverted Thinking

Introverted Thinkers focus on their own thoughts. Introverted Thinkers prefer to make decisions on their own. They rarely vocalize their thought process with others, whereas Extroverted Thinkers crave social input.

Extroverted Thinkers express their thoughts before making a decision. Unlike Introverted Thinkers, Extroverted Thinkers like to talk out their problems. They make the best decisions by vocalizing their concerns and situations with others—they prefer outward input.

Introverted Thinkers can present ideas on a whim. In most cases, those with Introverted Thinking don’t need to prepare before sharing their thoughts or ideas with a group. They usually have photographic memories and strong memorization skills.

Extroverted Thinkers prefer organizing their thoughts. Those with Extroverted Thinking thrive when they can create graphs, charts, and lists. They’re typically visual learners, and seeing their ideas laid out in front of them can help them make effective long-term decisions.

Introverted Thinkers have a hard time expressing emotions. Unlike Extroverted Thinkers, Introverted Thinkers can struggle to show empathy and relate to other people’s experiences. They prioritize logic over emotions, no matter the situation.

Are you an Introverted Thinker?

Take the Myers-Briggs Personality Test to see if you’re an Introverted Thinker. The best way to discover if you’re an Introverted Thinker is to determine your MBTI type. If you’re an INTP, ISTP, ENTP, ESTP, INFJ, ISFJ, ENFJ, or ESFJ, you have a Ti cognitive function and are an Introverted Thinker. Take the official Myers-Briggs Personality Test or a free online personality quiz to find your personality type.