Gf-Gc Theory

The Gf-Gc Theory, developed by psychologist Raymond Cattell, explains intelligence as comprising two main parts: Fluid Intelligence (Gf) and Crystallized Intelligence (Gc). Gf is the ability to reason quickly, solve new problems, and think abstractly, which is more flexible and adaptive—think of it as problem-solving skills. Gc involves knowledge gained through experience, education, and culture—like vocabulary or facts. Together, Gf and Gc interact to shape overall intelligence, with Gf helping us learn and adapt, and Gc reflecting what we've accumulated over time.