Cognitive Preference Indicator (CPI)
The Cognitive Preference Indicator (CPI) is a 20-question assessment designed to identify an individual’s dominant cognitive processing styles across four key domains: Analytical, Structural, Conceptual, and Social. Developed by Gregor Jeffrey as part of his broader Cognitive Spectrum Theory, the CPI offers a nuanced framework for understanding how people absorb information, generate insight, and make decisions.
Building on the work of Ned Herrmann (HBDI), Dr. Geil Browning and Dr. Wendell Williams (Emergenetics) the CPI explores the cognitive preferences that operate beneath behavior - the internal patterns of attention, organization, and interpretation that shape how we think, communicate, and solve problems.
About Cognitive Spectrum Theory
The CPI is a foundational tool within Cognitive Spectrum Theory, an emerging framework that redefines how we understand cognitive diversity in individuals and teams. The theory proposes that cognitive functioning exists along multiple interacting spectrums, rather than fixed categories or traits. This approach supports greater self-awareness, adaptability, and psychological precision in both personal and professional contexts.
The Four Cognitive Preferences
Analytical – Preference for logic, evidence, and critical evaluation. Analytical thinkers prioritize accuracy, coherence, and rational argumentation.
Structural – Preference for clarity, process, and systems. Structural thinkers are oriented toward sequencing, planning, and managing complexity through order.
Conceptual – Preference for abstraction, ideation, and future possibility. Conceptual thinkers seek novelty, theoretical insight, and non-linear perspectives.
Social – Preference for relational insight and shared understanding. Social thinkers process meaning through dialogue, empathy, and human context.
Understanding your cognitive preferences can help you:
Improve communication and collaboration
Recognize blind spots and cognitive biases
Adapt more effectively across contexts and roles
Navigate leadership, learning, and decision-making with greater insight
The CPI is used by individuals, leaders, coaches, and teams to enhance cognitive alignment and unlock more intentional ways of thinking and working.
Methodology
The CPI includes 20 rigorously developed questions based on linguistic framing, cognitive research, and iterative refinement. The tool is currently in active beta testing as part of a broader psychometric validation effort.
It is structured as a binary outcome model, meaning it does not rank preferences against one another but instead indicates the presence or absence of cognitive patterns across the four domains.
About Gregor Jeffrey
Gregor Jeffrey is a researcher, advisor, and creator of Cognitive Spectrum Theory. He has worked with organizations across North America to improve decision-making, leadership, and collaboration through an understanding of cognitive diversity.
His work challenges conventional personality and communication models by focusing on the underlying cognitive structures that drive behavior—not just how we act, but how we think.
Learn More
Contact Gregor directly or subscribe to his newsletter for updates.