The Overlap of ADHD and Learning Disability in Writing / Dysgraphia
- Abbie Cameron
- Mar 17
- 4 min read
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and learning disabilities (LD/dysgraphia/dyscalculia, dyslexia) are profiles that frequently co-occur, presenting unique challenges for children both in and outside of the classroom. While each profile brings its own set of difficulties, the overlap between ADHD and specific learning disabilities in writing or dysgraphia, is common. Because writing requires planning, organization, memory, and motor coordination, both ADHD and writing-related learning disabilities can create some barriers to written expression tasks. This blog explores how these challenges overlap and provides insights into how we can better support students who struggle with writing.
As we always say, one size does NOT fit all, by recognizing and addressing these difficulties, we can ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive.
Executive Functioning: One of ADHD's biggest challenges is the impact it has on an individual’s executive functions, such as planning, initiating, organizing, and following through. These are critical skills in the writing process, which involves multiple steps like brainstorming, organizing ideas, drafting, and revising. This is why we often see these executive functioning difficulties in students with writing-specific learning disabilities, particularly when tackling larger writing tasks. The challenge becomes even more pronounced when students must also revise the finer details of their writing, such as grammar, punctuation, and overall flow, which can be overwhelming.
Working Memory: Both ADHD and writing-related learning disabilities often present with challenges with retaining and organizing key information, such as ideas, formatting rules, grammar, and vocabulary. These difficulties become especially noticeable when students are required to write about previously read or discussed material. Additionally, students with specific learning disabilities in written expression may face struggles with spelling, sentence structure, and writing conventions, making the writing process even more complex.
Language Processing and Fluency: ADHD can impact an individual’s ability to process information quickly, which in turn can affect their ability to produce clear, organized, and coherent written work. Additionally, individuals with ADHD often find it challenging to translate their ideas into written words. It's quite common for students with ADHD to have brilliant thoughts and articulate them well verbally, yet they may struggle to express those ideas effectively on paper.
Motor Skills and Handwriting: Writing requires fine motor coordination, which can be challenging for students with ADHD, particularly if they also have dysgraphia (a learning disability affecting handwriting and written expression). Difficulties with handwriting can make writing slow, messy, and physically exhausting. Even when typing, students with ADHD may struggle with organization, spelling, and editing, making it hard to produce polished work. Often youth with motor skill difficulties benefit from Occupational Therapy.
Common Challenges in Writing:
Lets take a look at specific challenges students with ADHD and LDs may face when they are writing.
Slow writing speed
Inconsistent spelling and grammar
Difficulty organizing thoughts
Losing tracks of ideas
Difficulty revising and editing
Unclear hand writing (dysgraphia)
Trouble translating thoughts into words
Falling behind in homework
Overlooking details
How to Support
Students who struggle with ADHD and LDs are best supported when they are provided with tools, strategies and accommodations that are tailored to their specific and unique needs. Here are some accommodations and tools that might be helpful in the classroom and at home. If you have questions about accommodations in Individual Education Plans (IEPs) read this blog for more information about what IEPs are, and this blog for information on specific accommodations for ADHD.
Breaking it down
- For larger writing tasks, emphasize that writing is a step-by-step process. Dedicate separate times for each step (brainstorming, outlining, drafting, revising).
- Provide graphic organizers and clear outlines for the planning and structuring process
- Provide checklists for small and large tasks.
Check out our writing checklist for young writers!
Use Assistive Technology
- Speech-to-text tools can be helpful for students who struggle with writing or translating their brilliant thoughts into words.
- Provide access to spell-check and grammar check programs when necessary.
- Allow typed responses / provide students with electronic copies of handouts and worksheets.
Take a look at our blog on Assistive Technology here. There is a free download there too!
Use Visuals
- Use visual reminders, cue cards, or templates for common writing structures.
- Provide word banks.
- Allow extra time for processing.
- Provide small breaks during writing tasks.
- Provide sentence starters or fill-in-the-blank templates.
Verbal Processing
- Have students talk through their ideas before writing them out.
- Conference with the teacher to help clarify thoughts before writing them out.
- Use voice notes apps to help retain information and create ideas before converting them into written form.
- Scribe for the youth as they verbalize their answer aloud.
Recognizing how these profiles overlap allows for more targeted interventions and strategies that empower students to overcome obstacles and succeed.
At WonderTree, we offer educational consultation, advocacy support, and targeted tutoring services led by school psychologists and certified special education teachers. These services can provide your child with personalized support tailored to their unique learning needs, helping them navigate challenges and thrive academically.
If you want to get started on support first:
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IMPORTANT: Information shared by WonderTree is not intended to replace or be constituted as clinical or medical care. It’s intended for educational purposes only. Each child is unique, and the information provided may not be applicable to your specific situation. If you need support, please establish care with a licensed provider so that they can provide tailored recommendations for you or your child. This blog is non-monetized.
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