We are all a unique combination of the varying degrees of each of the doshas in our mind and body. Most of us will be a mixture of all three - for example, you can have Vata digestion, Kapha lips, and a Pitta mind. But generally speaking, one dosha will dominate our constitution and disease tendency. If in doubt, follow the Ayurveda instructions for Vata, to begin with as it affects the nervous system and mind in the most profound way and is usually the most likely one to go out of balance. Once Vata is brought under control Pitta and Kapha are more easily pacified.
It is sometimes not possible to make a firm diagnosis of our doshic type in this day and age, especially from a simple dosha tests or questionnaires because of the number of unnatural things that we are exposed to on a daily basis that are allowing all the doshas to go out of balance. For example, most pharmaceutical drugs and even over the counter herbal medicines will generally increase Vata, Xenobiotics and environmental toxins will generally increase Pitta, and our sedentary lifestyle will increase Kapha, regardless of our natural doshic constitution. A deep pulse analysis by an expert Ayurvedic physician as well as Medical Astrology are more effective ways to understand our constitutional doshic variations. Medical Astrology is particularly accurate as it reveals our genetic predispositions. The planetary periods of Vedic Astrology are also very effective in revealing the current dosha dominating our mental and physical constitution.
So instead of focusing on trying to figure out your dosha type try to incorporate the awareness of the doshas and the elements into your daily routine and lifestyle in a more natural way. See the elements and doshas at play around you and how they influence the world and in influence your mind and work towards equilibrium of all the elements on a daily basis. The most important premise of Ayurveda is that "like increases like” - in other words, fire increases fire (pitta), air (vata) fuels it further and only the opposite water element (kapha) can calm the fire (pitta).
Below are some general guidelines to help you see how the doshas are manifesting in your unique constitution.
VATA
Vata types are usually thin or underweight with variable energy and appetites that go from very high to very low in a short amount of time. They are usually highly creative and intelligent and curious but tend towards anxiety, nervousness, and inability to focus for long periods.
PITTA
Pitta types are medium built, highly intelligent, with lots of initiative and leadership abilities. They usually have a high appetite and good digestion. When out of balance Pitta types can easily become hyper-competitive and struggle with anger management.
KAPHA
Kapha types have the largest frame of the three types, so they will be bigger, wider and heavier set. Their appetite and digestive system is slow but consistent. Their temperament is usually laid back and loving but can also become lethargic and lazy when out of balance.