Relations between speed, working memory, and intelligence from preschool to adulthood: Structural equation modeling of 14 studies

We posit that fluid intelligence (Gf) develops in four cycles, with two phases in each cycle, each distinctly connected with changes in processing speed and working memory. New representational units emerge in the first phase of each cycle at 2–4 (representations), 6–8 (inference based concepts), and 11–13 years (principles) and they are integrated into wider systems in the second phase, at 4–6, 8–11 and 13–16 years. We hypothesized that cycle transitions are better predicted by speed and phase transitions by working memory. To test this hypothesis several published studies were selected which measured speed, WM, and Gf at one or more of the age phases concerned. In structural equation models applied on each phase speed was regressed on age, working memory was regressed on age and speed, and Gf was regressed on all three. In line with the hypothesis, in the first phase of each cycle the speed–Gf relations were high and WM–Gf relations were low; this pattern was inverted in the second phase. The role of executive processes strengthened in the second phase of all cycles. The implications for developmental and differential theories of intelligence are discussed. •Fluid intelligence develops in four cycles, with two phases in each.•Cycle transitions are predicted by speed and phase transitions by working memory.•Modeling of 14 studies validated the alternating speed–Gf and WM–Gf cycles.•An expanding executive control core drives changes within each cycle.