It’s hardly a surprise that Google gives us an inflated impression of our own intelligence. The search engine has the answer to every conceivable question at touch of a keyboard, turning even the most ignorant into instant boffins.
But faking intelligence doesn’t have to be high-tech. Here are several other ways to look like the genius in the room.
Cover up
Skimpy clothing may be sexy (depending on the wearer, of course), but it will also make you look dumb. Intelligence is not associated with impressive abs or slim thighs, and studies have found that we judge both men and women based on the amount of skin they show. Professor Kurt Gray, from the University of Maryland, found that those who wear fewer clothes are viewed as more emotional, but less capable of planning and acting on their own decisions. Boffins, meawnhile, we recognise as shrouded in cardigans and scarves.
Wear glasses
The ultimate geek’s accessory is scientifically proven to make you look more intelligent. Glasses with a dark rim are judged as more intelligent but less attractive, but rimless glasses are evaluated as both more clever and more trustworthy.