Career Path Quiz
Ten questions, loosely based on Holland’s RIASEC model.
10 questions
About the RIASEC model
Psychologist John Holland developed this model, set out in his 1973 book Making Vocational Choices, to describe six broad types of work interest: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. His central idea was that people tend to be more satisfied in work environments that match their interests. The model is still widely used by school and career counselors and in public career-guidance tools.
How this quiz works
Each question has six answers, one per type. Your result is the type you chose most often. Each result lists careers commonly associated with that type, as a starting point, not a shortlist.
Most people are a mix
Formal RIASEC assessments usually report a two- or three-letter code, such as "SAE" or "IRC", because most people and most jobs combine several types. If two results felt close while you were answering, read both descriptions below.
All six interest types
Realistic: The Builder
Realistic types like practical, physical work with tangible results: tools, machines, materials, plants, or animals. Careers that often suit this type include engineering technician, electrician, carpenter, mechanic, chef, paramedic, and agricultural or outdoor work.
Strengths: Practical problem-solving and skill with your hands.
Watch out for: Roles that are purely theoretical or desk-bound may leave you restless.
Investigative: The Thinker
Investigative types are drawn to observing, analyzing, and solving complex problems. Typical matches include scientist, researcher, data analyst, software developer, doctor, pharmacist, and economist.
Strengths: Analytical thinking and patience with hard problems.
Watch out for: Very sales-driven or highly social roles can feel draining.
Artistic: The Creator
Artistic types value self-expression and work best with freedom and few fixed rules. Typical matches include designer, writer, musician, architect, photographer, marketer, and content creator.
Strengths: Originality, imagination, and a strong sense of style.
Watch out for: Highly repetitive, rule-bound work can feel stifling.
Social: The Helper
Social types like teaching, helping, caring for, and working closely with people. Typical matches include teacher, nurse, counselor, social worker, therapist, HR professional, and coach.
Strengths: Empathy, communication, and patience.
Watch out for: Caring roles carry a risk of burnout. Protect your own time and energy.
Enterprising: The Persuader
Enterprising types enjoy leading, persuading, and taking risks to reach goals. Typical matches include entrepreneur, sales manager, lawyer, marketing director, project manager, and politician.
Strengths: Confidence, drive, and getting people behind an idea.
Watch out for: Pushing hard for results can wear on a team. Bring people with you.
Conventional: The Organizer
Conventional types prefer structured work with clear procedures and an emphasis on accuracy. Typical matches include accountant, administrator, auditor, logistics coordinator, data manager, and paralegal.
Strengths: Accuracy, reliability, and a talent for organization.
Watch out for: Loosely defined roles with constant change can be frustrating.