Personality Psychology

Complete Guide to the Big Five Model

Discover the five pillars that define human personality. The Big Five (OCEAN) model is the most respected and widely used theory in modern psychology for understanding ourselves and others.

What is the Big Five (OCEAN) Test?

Unlike other models that pigeonhole you into a "type," the Big Five describes personality as a spectrum across five main dimensions: Openness to Experience (O), Conscientiousness (C), Extraversion (E), Agreeableness (A), and Neuroticism (N). Each person has a different level in each of these traits, and it is this unique combination that makes us who we are. At Testvise, we offer you two ways to explore it.

Creative person looking at an abstract painting in an art gallery.

(O) Openness to Experience

This dimension measures your intellectual curiosity and your appreciation for art, emotion, and novelty. People high in openness are imaginative, creative, and enjoy trying new things.

  • A high score suggests: Curiosity, creativity, love of art.
  • A low score suggests: Pragmatism, preference for routine, more conventional interests.
Person meticulously organizing their schedule at a tidy desk.

(C) Conscientiousness

This trait refers to your level of self-discipline, organization, and sense of duty. Those who score high in conscientiousness are reliable, organized people who plan ahead.

  • A high score suggests: Discipline, organization, reliability.
  • A low score suggests: Spontaneity, flexibility, sometimes impulsiveness.
Group of friends laughing and socializing in a cafe.

(E) Extraversion

This measures how you get your energy. Extroverts get it from social interaction, while introverts get it from introspection and time alone. It's a spectrum, not a binary choice.

  • A high score suggests: Sociability, energy, assertiveness.
  • A low score suggests: Reserved character, thoughtfulness, preference for small groups.
Two colleagues collaborating and smiling.

(A) Agreeableness

This trait reflects your tendency to be compassionate and cooperative rather than suspicious and antagonistic. Agreeable people tend to trust others and are excellent team players.

  • A high score suggests: Empathy, cooperation, a trusting nature.
  • A low score suggests: Competitiveness, skepticism, an analytical nature.
Person meditating calmly, representing high emotional stability.

(N) Neuroticism

This refers to the tendency to experience negative emotions such as anxiety, anger, or sadness. It's important to remember that a low score on this trait is positive, as it indicates high Emotional Stability.

  • A high score suggests: Sensitivity to stress, a tendency to worry.
  • A low score suggests: Calmness, resilience, emotional security.