According to Coleman (1994), G/T students can be identified at a young age because they are:

I. Exceptional Learners (Acquisition and Retention of Knowledge)

A. Have exceptional memory

B. Learn quickly and easily

C. Have advanced understanding

II. Exceptional Users of Knowledge (Application of Knowledge)

A. Are exceptional users of knowledge

B. Use advanced symbol systems: expressive and complex

C. Demand a reason for unexplained events

D. Reason well in problem solving; draw from previous knowledge and transfer it to other areas

III. Exceptional Generators of Knowledge (Individual Creative Attributes)

A. Exhibit highly creative behavior, especially in the areas of interest or talent

B. Do not conform to typical ways of thinking, perceiving

C. Enjoy self-expression of ideas, feelings, or beliefs

D. Have a keen sense of humor that reflects advanced, unusual comprehension of relationships and meaning

E. Have highly developed curiosity about causes, futures, the unknown

IV. Exceptionally Motivated (Individual Motivational Attributes)

A. Suffer from perfectionism: striving to achieve high standards, especially in areas of talent and interest

B. Show initiative; are self-directed

C. Have a high level of inquiry and reflection

D. Have a long attention span when motivated

E. Show leadership; have the desire and ability to lead

F. Have an intense desire to learn