The Crafter (ISTP) Personality Type (Characteristics and Traits)

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The ISTP personality type, also known as “The Crafter,” describes people with Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, and Perceiving (ISTP) traits. People with ISTP personalities are independent and motivated, preferring to take a hands-on approach to life.

The ISTP concept breaks down into four psychological attitudes. These four attitudes were first introduced by psychologist Carl Jung and later used in the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) to categorize the sixteen personality types. Each attitude has an opposing trait. The MBTI defines the ISTP personality type according to the following traits.

Introversion (versus Extraversion): Introversion describes a focus on internal emotions. As introverts, ISTPs prefer solitude over socializing.
Sensing (versus iNtuition): Sensing is a psychological function that perceives reality through the physical senses rather than through abstract ideas. As sensors, ISTPs like to focus on facts and details.
Thinking (versus Feeling): Thinking is the psychological process of interpreting what the mind perceives through logic as opposed to emotions. As thinkers, ISTPs rely on logic instead of a set of values to make decisions.
Perceiving (versus Judging): Perceiving characterizes an individual’s preference for flexibility. As perceivers, ISTPs live with spontaneity and dislike excessive planning.

ISTPs’ observant nature grants them a mechanical understanding of the world while their flexible perception allows for adroit thinking. These qualities are the reason the ISTP personality is called The Crafter, or The Virtuoso, and they stem from the three dominant traits. Firstly, ISTP personalities are individualistic, in both their mindset and their actions. Secondly, ISTP types are level-headed, preferring logic to abstract thought or emotions. Thirdly, ISTP personalities are curious and eager to learn from the world around them.

The main strength of an ISTP personality type lies in their technical abilities. The ISTP’s virtuosity allows Crafters to solve problems and easily adapt to new situations. One main weakness of an ISTP personality type is their cold disposition. ISTPs often appear detached from emotion because of their logical thought processes.

The three career paths that ISTP people thrive in are engineering, firefighting, and banking. Engineering careers are perfect for ISTPs given their practical nature and tendency to use empirical evidence for problem-solving. ISTPs are also risk-takers who remain level-headed in a crisis—an essential quality for dangerous jobs like firefighting. ISTPs are also highly analytical and adept at finding solutions to concrete problems, making them a perfect fit for the world of finance.

The ISTP’s aloof demeanor and penchant for hands-on work traditionally align with masculine qualities. As a result, most ISTPs are men. Conversely, ISTP is the rarest type among women.

What does ISTP stand for?

ISTP stands for Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, and Perceiving. ISTP people are introverts who prefer to solve their problems through hands-on, practical solutions. ISTPs are often called the Crafters due to their pragmatism and technical abilities.

What are the ISTP traits?

Below are four ISTP traits of Crafter personality types.

Adventure-seeking: ISTPs crave new experiences and seek out exciting opportunities.
Confidence: ISTPs feel secure in their capabilities, being one of the most confident MBTI personality types.
Determination: The ISTP’s self-assurance pushes individuals with this personality type to achieve their goals.
Pragmatism: Crafters understand the world through practical, physical means.

What are the ISTP strengths?

Below are the four ISTP strengths.

ISTPs are adventurous: People with ISTP personalities desire adventure. Crafters never want to miss an opportunity to try something new and like to learn through hands-on experiences.
ISTPs are adaptable: ISTPs love to learn from their surroundings and therefore can easily adapt to new situations. Because of their flexibility, ISTP personality types are well suited for dynamic scenarios.
ISTPs are logical: The ISTP personality types are logical in their approach to understanding the world. Virtuosos tend to avoid lofty thoughts, preferring a practical means to an end over an unconventional solution.
ISTPs are even-Tempered: ISTPs have a relaxed disposition and tend to remain calm in an emergency.

What are the ISTP weaknesses?

Below are the four ISTP weaknesses.

ISTPs are inconsiderate: ISTP types are known for their relaxed temperament, but other types misconstrue their cool demeanor as rude. As a result, Crafters are sometimes seen as inconsiderate of others’ emotions.
ISTPs are risk-takers: ISTPs’ adventurous nature can get them into trouble if they aren’t careful.
ISTPs are non-committal: ISTPs find long-term obligations difficult due to their flexibility and spontaneous nature. Instead of committing to a long-term project, ISTPs prefer to jump from task to task.
ISTPs are reclusive: ISTPs enjoy socializing, but others may see their introversion as antisocial. This reticence is especially common in people with an ISTP-T personality because they’re less self-assured than other ISTP subtypes.

What are the career paths for an ISTP?

The best career paths for an ISTP are those that capitalize on the Crafter’s innate mechanical abilities. Below are four career paths for ISTP personalities to pursue.

Forensic science: ISTPs would excel in a forensic science career. Crafters are in tune with the world around them and are proficient problem solvers. Additionally, the uncertainty of the career compliments the ISTP’s need for flexibility.
Mechanics: The Crafter personality type should consider pursuing a career in mechanics. A career as a mechanic would satisfy the ISTP’s need to work with their hands and allow them to demonstrate their innate mechanical abilities.
Computer programming: ISTPs would make good computer programmers because they are observant, analytical, and react well to change.
Pilot: The ISTP personality type that has an adventurous nature should pursue a commercial pilot’s license. Not only would they be able to see the world, but ISTP know how to stay calm under pressure and adapt to any sudden complications.

ISTPs should choose career paths that allow them to work with their hands and offer opportunities to learn. The career personality profiler is a helpful tool for determining The Crafter’s ideal occupation. The ISTP-T personality types do especially well in computer programming because they enjoy manipulating the world around them.

How does ISTP prepare for a job interview?

To prepare for a job interview, ISTP should follow the three steps below.

Remain positive: ISTPs must make a conscious effort to appear upbeat. Otherwise, interviews may misconstrue their analytical ways as callousness,
Display confidence: ISTPs are innately self-assured, a trait employers find highly desirable.
Be honest: ISTPs can quickly feel suffocated in a staunch work environment. Therefore, job seekers with an ISTP personally should be honest about their introversion and need for flexibility to avoid future issues.

Are ISTPs good employees?

Yes, ISTPs are good employees as long as they follow the right career path. Their confidence and natural technical virtuosity make Crafters great assets to any workforce but particularly those that require adaptable, pragmatic individuals.

What career paths should ISTPs avoid?

ISTPs should avoid career paths that require strict schedules and a lot of communication because they thrive on flexibility and prefer independent work. Below are four examples of career paths ISTPs should avoid.

Craft artist: ISTP personalities should avoid pursuing a career as a craft artist because their cold disposition can damage client relations. Furthermore, craft artists need excellent customer service skills, a quality ISTPs seldom have.
Journalist: People with the ISTP personality type are ill-suited for journalism. Journalists must adhere to a strict schedule and meet deadlines. Due to their spontaneous nature, ISTPs will find such tasks difficult and suffocating.
Actor: ISTP types are creative but not in the same way an actor is. Actors work closely with a cast and crew while ISTPs prefer to work solo.
Urban Planner: ISTPs should avoid careers in urban planning. Urban planners need to regularly communicate with the public and relevant officials. ISTPs lack the necessary communication skills.

What are the statistics for ISTP personality types?

The ISTP personality type is among the rarest, with the Crafter making up just 3.3% of MBTI responders. People with ISTP personality types are found in professions that require an analytical mind. In contrast, Virtuosos avoid career fields that demand a strict routine or rely on frequent communication. ISTPs excel as first responders, engineers, and physical laborers. Because many of the ISTP’s personality traits often align with male gender roles, the workforce sectors heavily populated by ISTPs are male-dominated. Consequently, ISTP men account for 7.6% of all personality types while women account for 2%.

Who are the ISTP celebrities?

Below are several examples of famous ISTP celebrities.

Bear Grylls (British adventurer)
Bruce Lee (American martial artist)
Yulia Tymoshenko (Ukrainian politician)
Wayne Gretzky (Canadian hockey player)
Magnus Carlsen (Norwegian chess grandmaster)
Miyamoto Musashi (Japanese philosopher)
Georgia O’Keeffe (American artist)

In addition to these names, there are many more famous ISTP people.

What are the ISTP quotes?

Below are five quotes from ISTP celebrities that encapsulate the reserved, hands-on, adventurous, and independent Crafter personality.

“It is only by selection, by elimination, and by emphasis that we get at the real meaning of things.” — Georgia O’Keeffe.
“I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who had practiced one kick 10,000 times.” – Bruce Lee
“Do nothing that is of no use.” – Miyamoto Musashi
“Without the element of enjoyment, it is not worth trying to excel at anything.” – Magnus Carlsen
“You miss one hundred percent of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky

What are the ISTP subtypes?

There are three main ISTP subtypes — the Leader (ISTP-A+), the Follower (ISTP-T-), and the Fighter (ISTP-A-). Each subtype reacts differently to the world while still adhering to the four ISTP attitudes (Introversion, Sensing, Thinking, and Perceiving). The subtypes can be further broken down into Turbulent (T) and Assertive qualities (A).

1. The Leader – ISTP-A+

ISTP-A+ subtypes have Introverted Thinking (Ti) and Extroverted Sensing (Se) cognitive functions. The Leader subtype is strong-willed and exudes self-confidence. ISTP-A+ types are the most common subtype because their traits correspond with the traditional ISTP concept on an external level. One famous ISTP that displays traits of The Leader subtype is Erwin Rommel, who did not set goals for recognition or fame but to fulfill his motivations. The main strength of the ISTP-A+ subtype is their eagerness to discover the world around them. Their confidence is charming and their curiosity takes the forefront of the ISTP’s introversion. The main weakness of ISTP-A+s is their determination. They are so goal-oriented that they often fail to consider the disadvantages of a situation.

2. The Follower – ISTP-T-

ISTP-T- subtypes have the Extroverted Feeling (Fe) and Introverted iNtuition (Ni) cognitive functions. The ISTP-T- personality is the second most common subtype. Follower ISTPs are perfectionists and rely on the approval of others for the occasional confidence boost. One celebrity of who matches The Follower’s characteristics is Michael Jordan, since he cares about appearance and embraces his work as a lifestyle. One main strength of an ISTP-T- type is its flexibility. The Follower subtype works well with others and adapts to new situations with ease. One main weakness is that they are highly critical of themselves. If an ISTP-T- feels that they made a mistake, they need reassurance to continue their task.

3. The Fighter – ISTP-A-

ISTP-A- subtypes have the Introverted Thinking (Ti) and Introverted iNtuition (Ni) cognitive functions. Others perceive Fighter ISTPs as brooding loners with rugged exteriors. One celebrity who fits The Fighter subtype is Clint Eastwood. He’s a driven actor and filmmaker who’s passionate about his goals and beliefs. A main strength of the ISTP-A- subtype is its independent nature. Individuals with this subtype aren’t caught up in the public’s opinion and focus on their passions with no inhibitions. A main weakness of the ISTP-A- subtype is that they are serious to a fault. They become so caught up in their passions and work that they neglect others around them.

4. The Pleaser – ISTP-T+

ISTP-T+ subtypes have the Extroverted Feeling (Fe) and Extroverted Sensing (Se) cognitive functions. Pleasers are outwardly happy and likeable members of any social circle. One of the main strengths of the ISTP-T+ is their easy-going nature. One celebrity who fits the Pleaser subtype is Bear Grylls. He is a an easy-going and amiable person who can adapt his manners to fit any situation. The Pleaser is happy to adapt to fit the group they are in at any given time. One main weakness of the ISTP-T+ is their need for acceptance and external approval. Pleasers become anxious and frustrated when they feel that they have not been accepted by their peers.

How do ISTPs view other types?

ISTPs view other types according to the personality types’ dominant cognitive functions. For example, ISTPs view people with a dominant Sensing function as their equal because they, like ISTPs, think logically and set emotions aside. ISTPs view personalities with iNtuitive Feeling functions as their opposites because they prefer abstract thought over the Crafter’s practical methodology. While attempting to understand others, ISTPs will recognize themselves in other introverts. However, ISTPs’ introversion stems from their independent nature and not from a lack of emotions as more empathetic introverts may assume.

Can a person be both ESTP and ISTP?

No, a person cannot be both ESTP and ISTP. That said, these two personality types have traits that overlap in three key ways. Firstly, both ESTPs and ISTPs prefer concrete facts over abstract concepts. Secondly, ESTPs and ISTPs base their decisions on logic rather than a set of values. And finally, ESTPs and ISTPs prefer freedom over structure, both preferring a spontaneous lifestyle. That said, ESTPs are sociable and thrive on interactions. Their ISTP counterparts are reserved and enjoy spending time alone, a distinct difference in personality.

How to communicate with an ISTP personality person?

Here are five tips for communicating with an ISTP personality person.

Be practical: ISTP types are pragmatic. Therefore, they’re more interested in discussing how to fix something rather than why it needs fixing in the first place. This method is one of the best ways to communicate with an ISTP.
Speak directly: ISTP types communicate well with people who are frank about their wants and needs. They also prefer direct in-person communication over email.
Avoid emotional topics: ISTPs are analytical thinkers. As a result, they don’t care for overly emotional conversations
Listen carefully: ISTP personalities don’t want to repeat themselves. They will be less candid if they feel communication is futile. The ISTP-A- subtype is especially passionate and will become annoyed if someone isn’t listening to them speak.
Stay on task: The ISTP personality type needs to know where a conversation is going before it starts. The ISTJs also want the conversation to remain as succinct as possible. Thus, conversations with ISTJs should be concise, thorough, and straightforward.

How do ISTPs behave in a relationship?

ISTPs types behave adventurously in relationships. Crafters are well-known thrill seekers who like to plan exciting activities. That said, ISTP people also behave cautiously in relationships. Due to their fear of commitment, Virtuosos take relationships one step at a time. ISTPs are also respectful of their partner’s space and identity thanks to their flexible, spontaneous nature.

“All too often, others with whom we come in contact do not reason as we reason, or do not value the things we value, or are not interested in what interests us.” ― Isabel Briggs Myers

How is the ISTP personality in parenthood?

In parenthood, ISTP personalities are strongly bonded with their children. Adventurous ISTPs engage with their kids through physical, action-packed activities and playtime. Since the Crafter is always tinkering, ISTP parents often develop master-and-apprentice relationships with their children. Through this relationship, ISTPs like to teach their kids how to see the world through the mind of the Virtuoso. Due to their logical nature, ISTP parents may appear emotionally detached. Their cold demeanor can strain the ISTP’s relationship with their child. However, it is this same preference for rational thought that makes ISTPs forgiving and understanding parents.

“I said I would get better with each baby, and I have.” — Demi Moore

How productive are ISTP business people?

ISTP business people are highly productive. As the Virtuoso personality, ISTPs not only conquer challenges but grow with every failure. A career path in business requires motivation and the ability to learn from mistakes, two prominent characteristics of ISTP people.

“Make every detail perfect and limit the number of details to perfect.” — Jack Dorsey

How efficient are ISTP science people?

ISTP science people are naturally efficient thanks to their virtuous nature. Furthermore, ISTPs are eager to learn how the world operates and are naturally pragmatic. When these traits work together, ISTP scientists will find the most efficient method to complete a task.

“Really skillful people never appear busy.” — Musashi

What are ISTPs like as kids?

As kids, ISTPs are impetuous and reckless. Young Virtuosos are tactile learners who give little thought to their actions before exploring their surroundings. Because of their Perceiving nature, ISTP children are also careless and tend to be messy. However, ISTP kids can be serious. The ISTP is an austere personality type and they tend to behave rigidly at all ages.

“Ever since I was a child I have had this instinctive urge for expansion and growth. To me, the function and duty of a quality human being is the sincere and honest development of one’s potential.” — Bruce Lee

How are the genders of ISTP personality?

The male and female genders of the ISTP personality embody the main traits of the Crafters. However, ISTP traits traditionally align with male-dominated spaces. As a result, society perceives three main differences between ISTP men and women. Firstly, their romantic partners may see ISTP men as calm but see ISTP women as detached due to their logical thinking. Secondly, in business career paths, employers may laud ISTP men for their bravado yet see ISTP women as risk-takers. Thirdly, in science career paths, coworkers may respect the ISTP’s need for independence yet think INTP women are unprofessional for their introversion.

How is the ISTP female personality?

The ISTP female personality type is the rarest among women, at just 2% of the female population. Women with ISTP characteristics are proficient workers that excel in sciences, sports, and politics. Women categorized as the ISTP-T subtype are more concerned with how the world perceives them than their ISTP-A subtype counterparts.

How is the ISTP male personality?

The ISTP male personality represents 7.6% of the population. Men with ISTP characteristics prefer to be on their own. They are analytically minded and emotionally reserved. ISTP men are successful in politics, sciences, and mechanics because of their innate determination and virtuoso personality type.

What are the strongest signals that someone is an ISTP?

Below are the five strongest signs that someone is an ISTP.

Problem-solving: If ISTPs see an obstacle, they will work tirelessly to overcome that problem.
Thrill-seeking: ISTP personality types are risk-takers. One of the strongest signs that someone is ISTP is their interest in trying new and oftentimes reckless activities.
Independence: An ISTP person will often choose to work alone than with a group.
Calmness: During a crisis, ISTPs disregard emotions to focus on the task at hand.
Practicality: The Crafter type believes in the practical application of ideas over abstract theories and unconventional solutions.

How to understand whether you are an ISTP or not?

To understand whether you are an ISTP or not, determine whether you align with the main ISTP character traits. ISTPs are curious, individualistic, and level-headed. To further help you understand whether you are an ISTP or not, consider your methods of inter- and intrapersonal communication. For example, ISTPs think and communicate sensibly. They are not weighed down by emotion and view life through an analytical lens. Ultimately, the easiest way to determine your MBTI type is to take a personality type test.

How to classify personality types for ISTP communication?

You can classify other personality types for ISTP communication into the four classes below.

Kindred personalities: These are personalities that are similar to the ISTP’s personal ideology and morality. While ISTPs may not become fast friends with their kindred personalities, their similarities make socializing simple.
Friendly personalities: ISTPs might feel indifferent towards these personalities at first, but once they spend time together, ISTPs will find that they are very similar.
Opposite personalities: People with opposite personalities to ISTP are radically different from each other. However, if a relationship is forged, the two can complement the other’s strengths and weaknesses.
Different personalities: These are personalities that have a temperament that’s similar to ISTPs’, but with crucial differences between the types. While there are differences between these personality types, those distinctions may be intriguing to an ISTP.

What are the main similarities between other personality types and ISTP?

There are three main similarities between ISTPs and other personality types. Firstly, ISTPs are in touch with their senses and the physical world in a way similar to the ISFP type. Secondly, ISTPs have sharp logical reasoning skills, comparable to that of ENTJs’. Thirdly, ISTPs are similar to ESTPs in their quick problem-solving skills and sharp pragmatism.

What are the kindred personality types for an ISTP?

Below are four kindred personality types for ISTP.

ESTP: The first kindred personality for ISTP is ESTP. Both personalities respond quickly to crises. The main difference is in how each personality type socializes. ISTP has strong boundaries, whereas ESTP has a gregarious and outgoing personality.
ISFP: The second kindred personality type of ISTP is ISFP. They both enjoy their independence. Their main difference is that ISFPs are more emotional in how they process information than ISTPs.
ISTJ: The third kindred personality for ISTP is ISTJ. Both types are attentive to details. The main difference is that ISTJs do not mind small talk while ISTPs want most conversations to be brief.
ISTP: The fourth kindred personality type of ISTP is fellow ISTPs. Individuals with a shared Crafter personality get along and can understand each others’ approach to life.

What are the most friendly personality types to ISTP?

Below are the four friendly personality types to ISTP.

ESFJ: The first friendly personality type to ISTP is ESFJ. Both types are driven by practicality. Their main difference is that the ESFJ is more communicative than the ISTP.
INTJ: The second friendly personality type of ISTP is INTJ. Both personalities are also introverted. Their main difference is that ISTPs are more spontaneous than INTJs.
ENTJ: The third friendly personality type to ISTP is ENTJ. These personalities complement each other’s traits. For example, ENTJs help ISTPs organize their free-flowing ideas. Their main difference is that ENTJs are stronger communicators than ISTPs.
ENTP: The fourth friendly personality type to ISTP is ENTP. Both personality types are full of new ideas. Their main difference is ENTP’s innate extroversion.

What are the main differences between other personality types and ISTPs?

There are three main differences between ISTPs and other types. Firstly, ISTPs are practical and hands-on while INTPs are philosophical and theoretical thinkers. Secondly, ISTPs tend to be private people while ESFPs love to connect with other people. Thirdly, society sees ISTPs as insensitive while others see INFJs as compassionate.

What are the opposite personality types to ISTP?

Below are the four opposite personality types to ISTP.

ENFP: The first opposite personality for ISTP is ENFP. These two personalities are the true antithesis of one another. The main difference between ENFPs and ISTPs is that ENFPs have a more imaginative thought process and tend to base their decisions on principles rather than logic.
INFJ: The second opposite of the ISTP is INFJ. Their main difference is that INFJs prefer abstract thought over logical reasoning, whereas ISTPs root their thinking in rationality.
ENFJ: The third opposite of the ISTP is ENFJ. Their main difference is that ENFJs are compassionate and emotional, while ISTPs are largely detached from feelings.
INFP: The fourth opposite of the ISTP is INFP. INFPs defer to their values while making decisions instead of using logic. Their main difference is exhibited best in the ISTP-T+ subtype. This ISTP subtype has a carefree attitude that makes them easy to connect with while the INFP is more reserved.

What are the most different personality types from ISTP?

Below are the four different personality types from ISTP.

ESFP: The first different personality of the ISTP is ESFP. Although both types like new experiences, ESFP enjoys the social aspect of their adventures. Their main difference is how ISTPs and ESFPs express emotions. ISTP types are withdrawn while ESFPs are extraverted.
ISFJ: The second different personality for ISTP is ISFJ. People with ISTP personalities prefer objective information while ISFJs are more receptive to emotions. Their main difference is in their approach to the world around them. ISTPs are crafty while ISFJs’ rigid nature prevents them from coming up with new ideas.
INTP: The third different personality type of ISTP is INTP. Compared to the ISTP, people with INTP personalities process information differently. Their main difference is that INTPs are more abstract while ISTPs are more logical.
ESTJ: The fourth different personality type of ISTP is ESTJ. Individuals with ISTP personalities enjoy flexibility whereas ESTJs need structure. The main difference between ISTP and ESTJ types is that ISTP needs more independence.

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