| Conception of creativity | Description | Domain specific | Product that is externally validated |
| big C | Very few people and/or products considered big C creative; reserved for those who make historical achievements | Yes | Yes |
| pro c | Professional level of expertise in a creative area; requires training | Yes | Yes |
| little c | Everyday creativity found in most people | Usually | Yes |
| mini c | Personally meaningful creativity; highlights the role that process plays in creativity | Not required | Not required |