By the FindPersonality Editorial Team · Reviewed for Accuracy · Last Updated: 2025
"Every person carries within them a dominant way of being in the world." , David Keirsey. The four temperament groups reveal that fundamental orientation.
A Simpler Entry Point Into the 16 Types
The 16 MBTI personality types can feel overwhelming to navigate at first. The four temperament groups , developed by researcher David Keirsey , make the framework immediately accessible. Each group gathers types that share a core world view, a defining set of values, and a characteristic approach to life. Once you identify your group, the 16 types make intuitive sense. Once you know your group, take the free test to pinpoint your exact type within it.
The Four Groups
1. Analysts (NT) , INTJ, INTP, ENTJ, ENTP
Analysts are driven by a relentless pursuit of competence, knowledge, and strategic understanding. They trust logic above sentiment and prize intellectual independence. You can explore all four types in our Analyst types overview, or go directly to the individual profiles: INTJ | INTP | ENTJ | ENTP.
Analysts represent roughly 10-12% of the general population. They are significantly overrepresented in technology, science, executive leadership, and entrepreneurship.
Pro Tip: Analysts' greatest growth challenge is emotional intelligence. We explore this in our personal development roadmap for NT types.
2. Diplomats (NF) , INFJ, INFP, ENFJ, ENFP
Diplomats are driven by meaning, purpose, and a deep desire to make a genuine difference. They are the most idealistic group , constantly seeking authenticity and significance in everything they do. You can explore all four in our Diplomat types overview, or visit individual profiles: INFJ | INFP | ENFJ | ENFP.
Diplomats represent roughly 15-17% of the population and are overrepresented in counselling, education, creative arts, and non-profit advocacy.
Pro Tip: Diplomats' greatest growth challenge is setting firm boundaries and moving from vision into sustained action. Our personal development roadmap covers this in depth.
3. Sentinels (SJ) , ISTJ, ISFJ, ESTJ, ESFJ
Sentinels are the backbone of stable communities and organisations. They value reliability, tradition, responsibility, and commitment. Profiles: ISTJ | ISFJ | ESTJ | ESFJ.
Sentinels are the most common group , roughly 40-45% of the population. They are overrepresented in public service, education, and healthcare careers.
4. Explorers (SP) , ISTP, ISFP, ESTP, ESFP
Explorers are masters of the present moment , adaptable, action-oriented, and energised by hands-on experience. Profiles: ISTP | ISFP | ESTP | ESFP.
Explorers represent roughly 25-30% of the population and are drawn to trades, athletics, performance, entrepreneurship, and emergency services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which temperament group is most common?+
Sentinels are the most common at roughly 40-45% of the population. Analysts are the least common at around 10-12%. See our article on the rarest MBTI types ranked for more detail.
How are temperament groups used in the workplace?+
Understanding temperament groups helps leaders leverage diverse strengths and anticipate friction points. Our article on MBTI and team building covers practical applications in depth.