What does Practical Intelligence involve according to the theories of intelligence?

Practical Intelligence refers to the ability to adapt to, shape, and select environments to meet one's personal goals and the demands of everyday life. It is about applying knowledge and skills to real-world situations effectively and efficiently. This type of intelligence often involves using common sense, awareness of social contexts, and the ability to handle everyday problems in novel situations.

The emphasis on insights and the capability to react to novel situations highlights the dynamic nature of practical intelligence. This means that individuals with high practical intelligence can analyze situations in real-time, make sound judgments, and employ strategies that may not be learned through formal education or training.

In contrast, memory retention of facts, mathematical problem-solving, and standardized testing performance are more aligned with traditional measures of intelligence, which often focus on academic skills and rote knowledge. Therefore, while these aspects are important, they do not define practical intelligence, which is much broader and encompasses real-world problem-solving and adaptability.