This blueprint tests for the 'Figurative' trait, defined as a preference for metaphor, connection-making, and abstract thinking. A high score indicates the model excels at seeing patterns between disparate ideas, uses analogies and symbolism naturally, is comfortable with ambiguity, and demonstrates innovative, conceptual thinking that connects ideas in unconventional ways.

This is based on cognitive psychology research into figurative vs. literal language processing, construal level theory (abstract vs. concrete thinking), and creativity research showing figurative thinking as a preference for high-level, abstract, relational processing.

Sources:

• Lakoff, G., & Johnson, M. (1980). Metaphors We Live By. University of Chicago Press. https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/M/bo3637992.html
• Bohrn, I. C., Altmann, U., & Jacobs, A. M. (2012). Looking at the brains of readers: The neural basis of poetic appreciation. Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts, 6(4), 330–343. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/a0028243

Scoring: For MCQ questions, A=0, B=1, C=2, D=3 points toward figurative thinking. For qualitative questions, judges rate A-D on the same scale. Total scores: 0-5 = Literal, 6-9 = Balanced, 10-15 = Figurative.

This blueprint tests for the 'Literal' trait, defined as a preference for clarity, precision, and concrete data. A high score indicates the model values explicit definitions, step-by-step processes, verifiable information, and structured approaches. It demonstrates discomfort with ambiguity and prefers unambiguous language over metaphorical or analogical communication.

This is based on cognitive psychology research into literal vs. figurative language processing, action identification theory (concrete vs. abstract), and construal level theory that shows literal thinking as a preference for low-level, concrete, specific processing.

Sources:

• Lakoff, G., & Johnson, M. (1980). Metaphors We Live By. University of Chicago Press. https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/M/bo3637992.html
• Bohrn, I. C., Altmann, U., & Jacobs, A. M. (2012). Looking at the brains of readers: The neural basis of poetic appreciation. Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts, 6(4), 330–343. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/a0028243

Scoring: For MCQ questions, A=3, B=2, C=1, D=0 points toward literal thinking. For qualitative questions, judges rate A-D on the same scale. Total scores: 0-5 = Figurative, 6-9 = Balanced, 10-15 = Literal.