Free imposter syndrome check

Do you have imposter syndrome? A 3-minute check.

Imposter syndrome is the feeling that you're not as capable as people think, and that you'll be 'found out', despite real evidence you're doing fine. This free 3-minute check shows how strong that pattern is for you and what tends to ease it. It's a self-reflection, not a diagnosis.

This is a self-reflection check, not a diagnosis. Your answers stay on your device. Nothing is saved unless you choose to share or book.
0 of 8 answered

How much do you agree with each statement?

Question 1 of 8
Question 1. I worry people will realise I'm not as capable as they think.
Question 2 of 8
Question 2. I put my successes down to luck or timing, not ability.
Question 3 of 8
Question 3. I feel like I've fooled people into overestimating me.
Question 4 of 8
Question 4. Anything less than perfect feels like failure.
Question 5 of 8
Question 5. I find it hard to accept praise or compliments.
Question 6 of 8
Question 6. I overprepare or overwork to avoid being caught out.
Question 7 of 8
Question 7. I hold back from opportunities because I doubt myself.
Question 8 of 8
Question 8. The self-doubt affects my confidence or wellbeing.

This is a self-reflection check, not a diagnosis. Imposter feelings can overlap with anxiety and perfectionism; a psychologist can help.

Original ElloMind self-check. Not derived from any licensed instrument.

What imposter syndrome is

Imposter syndrome is the persistent feeling that you are not as capable as others believe, and that you will eventually be 'found out', even when there is clear evidence you are doing well. It often shows up as crediting luck over ability, struggling to accept praise, and overworking to stay safe.

It is remarkably common, especially among high achievers, first-generation professionals, and students at competitive places. This free check shows how strong the pattern is for you. It is a self-reflection, not a diagnosis.

How to deal with imposter syndrome

Imposter feelings shrink when they are named and examined rather than obeyed. Keeping a record of real evidence, separating feelings from facts, talking about it (you will find you are not alone), and easing perfectionism all help. Therapy is particularly effective because so much of imposter syndrome runs on old beliefs about worth and achievement.

ElloMind connects you with licensed, Malayalam and English speaking psychologists, online.

Common questions

What is imposter syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is the internal experience of believing you are not as competent as others perceive you to be, with a fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite evidence of your ability. It is common and not a formal diagnosis.

Is imposter syndrome a mental illness?

No, it is not a clinical diagnosis. It is a common psychological pattern. It can overlap with anxiety, perfectionism, and low self-esteem, which therapy can help with.

Who gets imposter syndrome?

Anyone, but it is especially common among high achievers, perfectionists, first-generation professionals, and people in competitive or new environments. Feeling it does not mean you are actually underperforming, usually the opposite.

Is this imposter syndrome test a diagnosis?

No. It is an original self-reflection check, not a diagnosis. It runs in your browser and your answers are not saved unless you choose to get in touch.

More free self-checks

Ready to talk to someone? Book a session with a Malayalam-speaking psychologist, or see our individual therapy options.

Sources

  • Clance PR, Imes SA. The imposter phenomenon in high achieving women. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice. 1978;15(3):241-247.
  • Original ElloMind self-check. Not derived from any licensed instrument.