Dyslexia is…
a specific learning disability characterized by difficulties in word reading and/or spelling that involve accuracy, speed, or both and vary depending on the orthography. These difficulties occur along a continuum of severity and persist even with instruction that is effective for the individual’s peers. The causes of dyslexia are complex and involve combinations of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental influences that interact throughout development. Underlying difficulties with phonological and morphological processing are common but not universal, and early oral language weaknesses often foreshadow literacy challenges. Secondary consequences include reading comprehension problems and reduced reading and writing experience that can impede growth in language, knowledge, written expression, and overall academic achievement. Psychological well-being and employment opportunities also may be affected. Although identification and targeted instruction are important at any age, language and literacy support before and during the early years of education is particularly effective.
-International Dyslexia Association, 2025
Dysgraphia is…
Dysgraphia is a brain-based condition that specifically affects a person's ability to produce written output efficiently. People with dysgraphia may have difficulty with letter formation and spacing, visual organization on the page, copying text, spelling, and thinking and writing at the same time. Students with dysgraphia may have difficulty learning to:
Form letters and write words correctly.
Write letters and words that other people can read.
Put correct spacing between letters and words.
Place letters and words correctly on the line.
Write fast enough to keep up in class.
Copy from the board accurately and fast enough to keep up in class.
Students with dysgraphia may be so focused on how they are writing that they can’t focus on what they are writing. Dysgraphia can lead to poor spelling and difficulty writing good sentences, paragraphs, stories, and reports.