Exploring Cognitive Assessment Tools – Professional Insights
Levi Acker
Hey everyone,
Since I spend my days working with a wide range of cognitive assessment tools, I figured it might be helpful to pull back the curtain on what these tests actually measure and how they differ from one another. If you’re curious about any of these tools or are thinking about a formal assessment, feel free to drop me a DM! I'm always happy to chat about this stuff.
Here is a breakdown of the comprehensive batteries I use:
The WAIS Family (WAIS-III, WAIS-IV, and the upcoming WAIS-5) The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale has seen some massive evolution over the years. The older WAIS-III basically split things into Verbal and Performance scales. The WAIS-IV upgraded this to a much more nuanced four-factor model: Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, Working Memory, and Processing Speed.
Now, the highly anticipated WAIS-5 (published in 2024 with fresh norms) introduces a five-factor structure. It brings in new subtests like Set Relations and Running Digits, offers a Motor-Reduced Processing Speed Index, and even allows for fully digital administration and scoring via Q-interactive.
WASI‑II – This abbreviated measure, consisting of four subtests (Vocabulary, Similarities, Block Design, and Matrix Reasoning), provides a quick estimate of IQ. It is often used as a screener before administering a full WAIS. The test produces four composite scores: two indexes—the Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI) and the Perceptual Reasoning Index (PRI) and two Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) estimates. These include the FSIQ-2, which is derived using only the Vocabulary and Matrix Reasoning subtests, and the FSIQ-4, which utilizes all four."
WMS-IV When we need to look at specific facets of memory, the Wechsler Memory Scale is the absolute gold standard. The adult battery gives us five index scores (Auditory, Visual, Visual Working, Immediate, and Delayed Memory) across seven different subtests. It's incredibly reliable and co-normed with the WAIS-IV.
SB-5 (Stanford-Binet Fifth Edition) The SB-5 uses a CHC-inspired five-factor model, testing Fluid Reasoning, Knowledge, Quantitative Reasoning, Visual-Spatial Processing, and Working Memory.
What makes it unique is that each factor has both verbal and nonverbal forms. It also uses "routing" subtests to adjust the difficulty on the fly, making it highly efficient for anyone aged 2 all the way up to 85+.
TONI‑4 – The TONI-4 is a 15-to-20-minute assessment that measures abstract reasoning and problem-solving without relying on language or physical dexterity. Instead of answering verbal questions or manipulating objects, examinees simply solve visual puzzles. Because it is completely language-free and motor-free. it is especially ideal for individuals who face language barriers, speech impediments, or motor skill challenges.
KBIT‑2 (Revised) – The Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test takes about 20 minutes. It has two scales: a Verbal Scale with Verbal Knowledge and Riddles (assessing receptive Vocabulary and Verbal Fluid reasoning) and a Nonverbal Scale with a Matrices subtest that measures fluid reasoning . It yields separate verbal and nonverbal scores plus a composite IQ and is normed for ages 4–90.
RAIT – The Reynolds Adaptable Intelligence Test includes seven subtests measuring crystallized, fluid and quantitative reasoning. It produces multiple indexes such as the Crystallized Intelligence Index (based on subtests like General Knowledge, Odd Word Out and Word Opposites), the Fluid Intelligence Index (from Sequences and Nonverbal Analogies), and the Quantitative Intelligence Index. The normative sample (n = 2,124) matches the 2010 U.S. Census and supports validity across clinical groups.
Other tools – I also have experience with the Wide Range Intelligence Test (WRIT), the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT‑4), the Woodcock–Johnson Tests (3rd,4th and 5th editions) and more, and I’m preparing for the forthcoming WMS‑5 release.
Why this matters – Knowing which test to use depends on the referral question. For example, the WASI 2 and KBIT‑2R offer quick screening across verbal and nonverbal domains; the WMS‑IV provides detailed memory profiling; TONI‑4 is ideal when language is a barrier; and the WAIS series yields comprehensive IQ and index scores for adults. Proper administration (start points, discontinuation rules, and scoring) is essential for valid results, and confidentiality and ethical standards mean test materials are never shared publicly.
If you’d like to discuss cognitive testing or schedule a professional administration, feel free to DM me on Discord (link below). I’m happy to tailor assessments to your needs and answer any questions about the process.
DM: DISCORD
