You probably already know that IQ (intelligence quotient) is one way to gauge a person’s intellectual abilities. But what does an EQ (emotional quotient) tell about a person?

EQ refers to your ability to recognize and manage your emotions. Having a high EQ comes in handy when you’re interacting with your friends and teachers at school. It allows you to stay calm, for instance, in stressful or frustrating situations.

One of the most unpleasant emotions to experience is anger. It may cause your jaw to tighten or your heart to pound in your chest. In addition to anger, other common emotions include joy, surprise, fear and guilt.

Sometimes, though, you may just say that you’re in a “bad mood.” Perhaps you even do something that’s out of character for you, such as lash out at someone who accidentally bumps into you on the street. In this situation, an observer could say that you are being quite tetchy (see definition below).

Speak your mind: What emotions do you experience most often, and are there any that you would like to manage more effectively?

TETCHY: Irritable, bad-tempered, touchy.