AQ-10 Autism Screening Test
Question 1 of 10
I often notice small sounds when others do not
About the AQ-10 Test
The Autism Spectrum Quotient-10 (AQ-10) is a brief screening questionnaire designed to quickly identify whether an adult may have autism spectrum traits that warrant further evaluation.
Developed by Baron-Cohen and colleagues at the Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge, the AQ-10 is a shortened version of the full 50-item Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ). It was specifically designed for quick screening in clinical settings where time is limited but accurate initial assessment is needed.
The AQ-10 serves as a first-line screening tool that takes only 2-3 minutes to complete. It is particularly useful for individuals who want a quick assessment before deciding whether to pursue more comprehensive testing like the RAADS-R or professional evaluation.
Why Quick Screening Matters
The AQ-10 was designed to balance accuracy with efficiency, making autism screening accessible to more people.
Key Advantages
- Takes only 2-3 minutes to complete, removing barriers to initial screening
- Straightforward questions that are easy to understand and answer
- Clinically validated with good sensitivity and specificity for autism screening
- Useful as a first step before committing to longer, more detailed assessments
When to Use AQ-10
The AQ-10 is ideal when you want a quick preliminary assessment, are unsure whether to pursue detailed testing, need to screen multiple people efficiently, or want to quickly gauge whether professional evaluation might be beneficial. However, if you already suspect you may be autistic or want detailed information about specific trait domains, consider taking the more comprehensive RAADS-R test instead.
How the AQ-10 Test Works
The AQ-10 uses a simple format to assess core autism spectrum traits.
Questions
10 carefully selected questions covering key areas where autistic and non-autistic individuals typically differ. Each statement describes an experience or preference, and you rate how much you agree or disagree.
Scoring
Responses are scored as either 0 or 1 based on whether they align with autism spectrum traits. The total score ranges from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating more autism traits consistent with autism spectrum disorder.
Duration
Most people complete the AQ-10 in 2-3 minutes, making it one of the fastest validated autism screening tools available.
What the AQ-10 Assesses
The 10 questions cover five core areas, with 2 questions per area:
1Social Skills
Questions about social interaction preferences, understanding social situations, and connecting with others.
2Attention Switching
Questions about shifting attention between tasks or topics, and managing interruptions or changes.
3Attention to Detail
Questions about noticing small details, patterns, and specific elements that others might miss.
4Communication
Questions about conversation patterns, understanding implied meanings, and communication preferences.
5Imagination
Questions about creating mental images, imagining alternative scenarios, and pattern-based thinking.
Understanding Your AQ-10 Score
Your score helps determine whether further evaluation might be beneficial.
Threshold: Research suggests that a score of 6 or higher indicates autism spectrum traits warrant further investigation. The AQ-10 has shown approximately 88% sensitivity and 91% specificity when using this threshold.
Low Range
Scores in this range typically indicate fewer autism spectrum traits. While everyone has unique characteristics, the overall pattern suggests autism is less likely.
Borderline Range
Scores in this range are considered borderline. Some autism traits may be present, but further assessment is needed to determine their significance. Consider taking the more detailed RAADS-R test.
Above Threshold
Scores at or above 6 suggest autism spectrum traits that warrant further professional evaluation. A comprehensive assessment by a qualified clinician is recommended to determine whether criteria for autism diagnosis are met.
Important: Important: The AQ-10 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A high score suggests further evaluation is warranted but does NOT provide a diagnosis. Similarly, a low score does not definitively rule out autism, especially in individuals who may have learned to mask or compensate for autistic traits. Only a qualified professional can diagnose autism through comprehensive clinical evaluation.
AQ-10 vs. RAADS-R: Which Test Should You Take?
Both tests are valuable screening tools, but they serve different purposes and have distinct strengths.
AQ-10 (This Test)
Strengths:
- Very quick - only 2-3 minutes to complete
- Simple and straightforward questions
- Good for initial screening and determining if more testing is needed
- Less overwhelming for those new to autism assessment
Limitations:
- Limited detail - only 10 questions
- No subscale scores or domain-specific information
- Does not capture lifetime perspective or developmental history
- May miss nuanced presentations, especially in adults with masking
Best for: Best for: Quick preliminary screening, first-time assessment, determining whether to pursue more comprehensive testing, or when time is very limited.
RAADS-R (Comprehensive Test)
Strengths:
- Comprehensive - 80 questions provide detailed assessment
- Lifetime perspective captures traits from childhood to present
- Provides subscale scores for four specific domains
- Higher accuracy and more sensitive to adult presentations
Limitations:
- Takes 15-20 minutes to complete
- More questions can be mentally fatiguing
- Requires more time investment upfront
- May feel overwhelming if you're just exploring the possibility
Best for: Best for: Detailed self-assessment, understanding specific trait domains, preparing for professional evaluation, or when you strongly suspect you may be autistic and want comprehensive information.
Recommended Next Steps
Based on your AQ-10 results, here's what you should consider doing:
1Score 0-3: Continue Self-Awareness
While your score is in the low range, continue to be aware of your own experiences. If you have ongoing concerns about autism or other neurodevelopmental differences, consider discussing them with a healthcare provider.
2Score 4-5: Take the RAADS-R
Your score is in the borderline range. Consider taking the more comprehensive RAADS-R test available on this site. It will provide much more detailed information about specific trait domains and give you a better understanding of your autism spectrum characteristics.
3Score 6+: Seek Professional Evaluation
Your score suggests autism spectrum traits that warrant further investigation. Consider scheduling an evaluation with a psychologist, psychiatrist, or specialist experienced in adult autism assessment. Take the RAADS-R test as well to gather more detailed information to share with the professional.
4Learn About Autism in Adults
Regardless of your score, educate yourself about autism presentation in adults. Many resources exist specifically for adult autism, late diagnosis, and autistic experiences. Understanding autism better helps you understand yourself and others.
5Consider Other Factors
Remember that autism often co-occurs with other conditions (ADHD, anxiety, etc.). If you experience other challenges, consider comprehensive evaluation that can assess multiple areas of functioning, not just autism traits.