Exner system of scoring

The Exner system of scoring is the standard method in psychology for interpreting the Rorschach inkblot test.

In the 1960s, Dr. John E. Exner developed a more scientific system for Rorschach test analysis. It has been heavily validated, and shows high interrater reliability. In 1969 Dr. Exner published The Rorschach Systems, a concise description of what would be later called the Exner system. Later, Dr. Exner published a study in multiple volumes called The Rorschach: A Comprehensive system, the most accepted full description of the Exner system.

Although the system does not have as much facial validity as many other tests like intelligence tests or non-projective personality tests, the Rorschach has been much more extensively researched and validated than most tests in the field of Psychology. The system is quite difficult to learn, requiring in depth study. Usually an entire course, requiring the reading of several full books, is necessary to be able to administer and interpret a Rorschach test appropriately.