If a person does not have a lot of emotional intelligence, is it possible to increase it?

• A. No, it cannot be increased.
• B. Yes, it is possible.
• C. Only with formal education.
• D. Only if the person is highly motivated.

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is that emotional intelligence can be developed with effort. Emotional intelligence includes recognizing and understanding your own emotions and others’ emotions, and using that understanding to guide thinking, behavior, and relationships. These are skills, not fixed traits, so with deliberate practice—such as reflection, feedback, coaching, mindfulness, and practicing empathy—you can grow in these areas.

That’s why the best answer is that it is possible to increase emotional intelligence. You don’t need formal education alone, and you don’t need to be highly motivated from the start—though motivation helps—and you can make progress through targeted training, real-life application, and ongoing feedback.