Successful intelligence involves a broader range of abilities than is typically measured by tests of intellectual and academic skills. Most of these tests measure primarily or exclusively memory and analytical abilities. With regard to memory, they assess the abilities to recall and recognize information. With regard to analytical abilities, they measure the skills involved when one analyzes, compares and contrasts, evaluates, critiques, and judges. Several separate factor-analytic studies support the internal validity of the theory of successful intelligence. The theory of successful intelligence is valid as a whole. Moreover, the theory can make a difference not only in laboratory tests but in school classrooms and even the everyday life of adults as well. The educational system in the United States, as in many other countries, places great emphasis on instruction and assessments that tap into two important skills: memory and analysis.