What does a normal curve signify in the context of intelligence testing?

A normal curve in the context of intelligence testing represents the general distribution of abilities within a population. It illustrates how test scores are distributed and shows that most individuals score near the average, while fewer individuals score at the extremes (either very high or very low). This bell-shaped curve implies that intelligence, as measured by these tests, tends to cluster around a central point, which highlights the variance in cognitive abilities among different individuals within the population.

Understanding the normal distribution is crucial for interpreting test results, as it allows psychologists to identify where a particular score falls in comparison to the broader population. For instance, one can see the proportions of individuals who may be classified as above average, average, or below average in terms of intelligence. This distribution is foundational for making comparisons and assessing individual performance in relation to others.