Understanding Cognitive Functions: A Quick Guide to Myers-Briggs Personality Types

Extroverted functions focus on the outside world first:

Te: Seeks efficient solutions and relies on external data

Fe: Responds to social dynamics and group harmony

Ne: Explores multiple possibilities from a single concept

Se: Notices immediate details and opportunities to act

Everyone uses all eight functions, but we each prefer four arranged in a specific order. These four create your "function stack," which is what personality types like INFJ or ESTP represent.

(Have you seen these combinations around the web?)

Your function pairs always include:

• One introverted and one extroverted judging function (T/F)
• One introverted and one extroverted perceiving function (N/S)

In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) system:

• The middle two letters show your preferred judging and perceiving functions
• The last letter (J/P) reveals which function is extroverted
• The first letter (E/I) indicates which function is dominant

For example, an ENFJ's stack is Fe-Ni-Se-Ti, meaning they lead with extroverted feeling, supported by introverted intuition.

You might discover your type by:

• Taking the Myers-Briggs Personality Test or
• Identifying which functions resonate most with you
• Recognizing behavioral patterns (ExxJs tend to be directive, IxxPs more laid-back)
• Exploring "quadras"—groups sharing the same functions (like xNTPs and xSFJs)

Understanding cognitive functions can help you recognize your strengths, appreciate others' perspectives, and improve communication with people who process information differently than you do.

Introverted functions prioritize internal consistency:

Ti: Creates logical frameworks to understand systems

Fi: Develops personal values and identity

Ni: Forms symbolic models to predict patterns

Si: Builds reliable systems based on past experiences