If you recently stumbled on MBTI types, one of the hardest things to understand is cognitive functions. However, you must understand them as they hold the key to a new level of discovery. The Te vs Ti comparison is one concept that needs clarification.
In this article, we’ll talk about both concepts in closer detail.
What is Extroverted Thinking (Te)?
Extroverted thinking, also known as Te, is used to collect objective knowledge. People who use Te as their primary or auxiliary functions are usually judgers.
Te is more interested in objectively collecting data and other variables. These variables are then used to further their goals. This is why they are usually interested in studies, measurements, and research.
For Te, the interest is finding one objective way or truth that works or ensures efficiency. So, Te is quick and decisive when reaching conclusions.
For Te-dom users, Te is usually paired closely with introverted intuition or introverted sensing (Si). For example, the ENTJ uses Te as their primary function.
This is backed up by introverted intuition (Ni). In other words, the ENTJ sets a goal and uses the Te to objectively gather and consider all the variables. Then, they reach a conclusion using their Ni.
ESTJ has Te as their dominant function. This is backed up with Si. So, ESTJs gather information and use their Te to find objective truth. This is further filtered by Si, which focuses on past dealings and what has worked.
This allows them to reach a verifiable decision based on logic and past experiences.
You can click this link to understand the differences between Ni and Ne.
What is Introverted Thinking (Ti)
Introverted thinking, also known as Ti, is simply subjective thinking. In other words, Ti users are more interested in what makes sense.
Ti is not concerned with measurements or variables. It is interested in how their logic or thoughts work for them. It is more of an internal process that considers all the options.
Because of this, they are slower to reach a decision. They are also more likely to spend time exploring ideas they have no personal interest in.
For Ti-doms users, this is usually followed by extroverted intuition (Ne) and extroverted sensing (Se).
For example, INTPs use Ti as their dominant function. Ne backs this up. Thus, INTPs can generate many ideas (Ne), pinpoint loopholes, and the best possible strategy that favors them (Ti).
ISTP use Ti as their dominant function, backed up with Se. Thus, they use Se to implement the things they believe will shift the specific circumstances to their favor.
How the Te and Ti are similar
While they are fundamentally different, both functions share some similarities. First, they are both thinking functions. So, they deal with logic and how data is measured. The difference is just how they measure the data.
Te and Ti are also concepts linked to the MBTIverse. Their particular order or position on the cognitive stack largely depends on the personality type.
Finally, both cognitive functions are equal. So, using one over the other does not make you a better person.
What is the Main Difference Between Ti and Te?
The main difference between Te and Ti is their end goal. Te is more interested in how data or information works externally, while Ti is more interested in how this knowledge works for them.
Te vs Ti- What are the Differences?
| Introverted Thinking | Extroverted Thinking |
| Deductive Reasoning | Inductive Reasoning |
| Focus is internal | Focus is external |
| Focuses on subjective knowledge | Focuses on objective knowledge |
1. External vs. Internal
One of the biggest differences between both functions is their focus. For Te users, it’s all about the external application of the measurements.
They ask themselves if their logic or conclusion can be proven with data and work repeatedly. They draw quick conclusions based on verifiable information. Backed up by Si or Ni, they can draw conclusions based on their instinct or experiences.
For Ti users, things are a bit different. Their process takes place internally and revolves around how it affects them. Because Ne or Se backs their subjective thinking, they love sieving through various ideas or sensory experiences to see what fits best.
This is one of the many reasons why INTPs make brilliant detectives and ISTPs, brilliant chefs or engineers.
2. Objective or Subjective
As earlier stated, Te strives to get objective knowledge. To them, objectivity based on data is the only way for them to make the best choice.
Things are a bit different with Ti users. They are more interested in subjective knowledge. The implication of this is that they are more curious and open-minded. This is one reason why they are all perceivers.
3. Narrow or Broad
For Te users, the aim is to narrow their choices to what works and is repeatable. Once they find what they believe is right, they stick to it and defend their position.
For Ti users, they love to broaden their options. So, they keep their options open even if they find what works for them. They explore and always seek ideas that make logical sense.
The presence of their auxiliary functions heightens this reality, as we shall soon see.
4. The Influence of Auxiliary Functions
This follows the last point. Their auxiliary functions affect the approach Te and Ti take. For Te-doms who use Ni as their auxiliary function, their conclusion is reinforced by Ni’s ability to connect the dots.
So, it becomes personal to them. They genuinely believe their viewpoint and see no reason to shift their opinions. The presence of Fi further strengthens this.
It’s similar to those who use Si as their auxiliary function. This time, they stick to their beliefs because of past experiences.
Ti-doms use Se or Ne. For those who use Ne, their analysis pushes them to explore several solutions. They are also very reluctant to stick to one position. This is one of the reasons why ENTPs are called devil’s advocates.
Those who use Se allow their data to push them to new creative or sensory experiences. They become more innovative.
5. Approach to Absolute Statements
People make absolute statements or generalizations. Te and Ti both hate these statements. However, their approach to pointing out these flaws are different. Te users simply state how the statement is wrong and how their opinion is more reasonable.
Ti users will not state their opinions. However, they will test the logic of that statement by looking for loopholes. Their interest is in eliminating any generalizations in any statement. Plus, they enjoy debates or mental sparring.
Who are the Major Te Users?
ENTJ and ESTJ use Te as their primary function. Thus, they heavily rely on this function to achieve their goals.
INTJ and ISTJ use Te as their auxiliary function. In this case, Te backs up Ni or Si and helps them make the right decision.
The difference is that Te is merely an afterthought after the primary function.
Other personality types use Te, but they are not well developed.
Who are the Major Ti Users?
INTP and ISTP use Ti as their primary function. Thus, they think critically about any new information before using their auxiliary function Ne or Se.
So, what comes out is usually well-tailored and thoughtful.
ENTP and ESTP use Ti as their auxiliary function. This backs up their Ne that spurts out ideas regularly. Thus, with a little afterthought, their ideas work like a charm.
Other personality types use Ti, but they are not well developed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Te vs Ti
Have other questions about the Te vs Ti debate? Here are some common questions.
Is Te Smarter than Ti?
No, Te is not a smarter function. Te simply looks and interprets data or information differently. Both cognitive functions are logical.
Is Ti Deductive or Inductive?
Ti uses deductive reasoning. Ti wants to explore all the options available. Once they believe they have done this, they narrow down everything they know to the best results.
This is aided by their detachment from knowledge or the truth. They act because of curiosity. Te is more inductive.
