ISTPs excel at analyzing situations to reach the heart of a problem so that they can swiftly implement a functional repair, making them ideally suited to the field of engineering. Naturally quiet people, they are interested in understanding how systems operate, focusing on efficient operation and structure. They are open to new information and approaches. But contrary to their seemingly quiet and detached natures, ISTPs are often capable of humorously insightful observations about the world around them, and can be closet daredevils who live on the edge by gravitating toward fast-moving or risky hobbies. ISTPs tend to save their energy until they see a project worthy of their time, and then they launch themselves at it.
Openness
Openness to experience describes a dimension of personality that distinguishes imaginative, creative people from down-to-earth, conventional people.
This trait refers to the extent to which people prefer novelty versus convention. From the way you answered the questions, you seem to describe yourself as someone who is intellectually curious and appreciative of what you consider beautiful, no matter what others think. You might say that your imagination is vivid and makes you more creative than many others.
Reflective question: How important are your emotions in determining how you behave?
Conscientiousness
Conscientiousness concerns the way in which we control, regulate, and direct our impulses.
This trait refers to the extent to which people prefer an organised, or a flexible, approach in life. From the way you answered the questions, you seem to describe yourself as someone who is spontaneous and fun, and that you like to do unexpected things that make life that bit more interesting. You might say that you aren't completely unreliable, but you've been known to slip up on occasion.
Reflective question: How do you go about tackling a new task?
Extraversion
Extraversion is marked by pronounced engagement with the external world, versus being comfortable with your own company.
This trait refers to the extent to which we enjoy company, and seek excitement and stimulation. From the way you answered the questions, you seem to describe yourself as someone who prefers low-key social occasions, with a few close friends. You might say that it's not that you are afraid of large parties; they're just not that fun for you.
Reflective question: How do you like to spend your spare time?
Agreeableness
Agreeableness reflects individual differences in concern with cooperation and social harmony.
This trait refers to the way people express their opinions and manage relationships. From the way you answered the questions, you seem to describe yourself as someone who people can find difficult to get along with when you first meet, as you can be suspicious of their motives. Your responses suggest that over time though people warm to you, and you to them, although that doesn't stop you telling them "how it is".
Reflective question: When others are experiencing problems, what do you do?
Neuroticism
Neuroticism refers to the tendency to experience negative emotions.
This trait refers to the way people cope with, and respond to, life's demands. From the way you answered the questions, you seem to describe yourself as someone who reacts poorly to stressful situations, and consequently worries more than most about them. However, you are someone that has an emotional depth that others lack.
Reflective question: When do you not feel in control of your emotions?