The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fifth Edition (WISC-V), is a test that is administered in English and is appropriate for children and teens who are fluent in English. It is a widely used and comprehensive assessment tool designed to measure the intellectual ability of children aged 6 to 16 years. Published in 2014 by Pearson, the WISC-V builds upon its predecessors with updated content and enhanced interpretive power.

The WISC-V consists of 16 subtests, of which 10 are primary and six are optional. These subtests are organized into five primary index scales, which provide a detailed analysis of a child's cognitive functioning:

1. Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI): Measures verbal reasoning and comprehension skills. Subtests include Similarities, Vocabulary, and Information.

2. Visual Spatial Index (VSI): Assesses the ability to understand visual details and spatial relationships. Subtests include Block Design and Visual Puzzles.

3. Fluid Reasoning Index (FRI): Evaluates logical thinking and the ability to solve novel problems. Subtests include Matrix Reasoning and Figure Weights.

4. Working Memory Index (WMI): Tests the ability to temporarily hold and manipulate information. Subtests include Digit Span and Picture Span.

5. Processing Speed Index (PSI): Measures the speed and accuracy of visual identification, decision making, and implementation. Subtests include Coding and Symbol Search.

The WISC-V also features ancillary and complementary index scores that provide additional insights into a child's cognitive profile, such as the General Ability Index (GAI) and the Cognitive Proficiency Index (CPI).

Key improvements in the WISC-V include greater flexibility in administration and interpretation, more engaging and child-friendly test materials, and enhanced scoring options. The test's design allows for a more nuanced understanding of a child's strengths and weaknesses, aiding in the identification of learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, giftedness, and other cognitive and developmental issues.

Overall, the WISC-V is an essential tool for psychologists, educators, and clinicians, providing valuable information to support individualized educational planning, intervention strategies, and comprehensive evaluations of cognitive abilities