A questionnaire asks about preferences, typical reactions, and self-descriptions; the pattern of answers yields a profile of traits or types. A personality test is that standardized instrument designed to measure aspects of personality.

Self-report inventories such as the NEO-PI or MMPI are widely used. Projective methods present ambiguous stimuli and interpret the responses. Validity depends on reliable scales, appropriate norms, and protection against faking or response biases. Tests are employed in clinical assessment, personnel selection, and research.

No test captures the whole person. Scores indicate relative standing on measured dimensions and must be interpreted in context. Ethical use requires informed consent, appropriate training, and attention to fairness across groups. When well constructed and properly applied, personality tests add structured information that complements interviews and behavioral observation.

A test score is a sample of behavior under specific conditions, not a final verdict on character.