In this article the author's research reports that giftedness is a combination of advanced development and creativity. It is developmental in nature in that it begins as potential (generally in young people), evolves into achievement within recognizable domains during the school years, and becomes increasingly advanced (compared with peers) through the non-universal development of the individual. Although the authors recognize that development continues across the life span, the "School-Based Conception of Giftedness" was created to emphasize the development of talents from the early years through late adolescence. Giftedness, therefore, represents a complex series of interactions that include the coordination of many traits of the individual student, such as motivation and perseverance, with context variables, such as teacher expertise and opportunities for practice, along with the general ability levels of the individual in terms of academic domains, and levels of creativity. Ultimately, giftedness is a consequence of development of the individual over time.