Realistic individuals are often good at mechanical or athletic jobs. They like to work with things like machines, tools or plants and they like to work with their hands. They are often practical and good at solving problems.

One way of exploring careers is by looking at education and occupations according to interest. John Holland conducted research that divided individuals into six broad personality type categories. These categories are REALISTIC, INVESTIGATIVE, ARTISTIC, SOCIAL, ENTERPRISING, and CONVENTIONAL.