At what age does the formal operational stage typically begin?

The formal operational stage, as proposed by Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development, begins around the age of 12 years. This stage signifies a significant shift in cognitive abilities, allowing individuals to think abstractly, logically, and systematically. During this phase, adolescents develop the capacity for hypothetical and deductive reasoning, moving beyond the concrete and tangible experiences of the previous stages. They start to understand complex concepts, engage in systematic planning, and consider possibilities that are not tied to immediate reality. Understanding this stage is essential for recognizing the cognitive capabilities of adolescents and how they approach problem-solving and reasoning in various contexts.