Signs of Dyslexia: How to Recognise and Get Support

For many, the journey to understanding dyslexia doesn’t start in a classroom or with a formal test. It begins with a feeling—one you may have carried for years. Maybe you’ve always wondered why reading feels harder than it should, or why your thoughts are quick and creative, but spelling trips you up. Maybe you've been called “careless” when you miss details, or “lazy” when tasks take longer than expected. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Dyslexia affects approximately 10% of the Global population, with around 4% experiencing severe challenges. Despite this, many remain undiagnosed well into adulthood.

What Is Dyslexia? More Than Just Reading Difficulties

When people think of dyslexia, they often picture someone struggling to read. While reading challenges are common, dyslexia is far more complex. It’s a different way of processing information—one that affects memory, organisation, focus, and even the way you express ideas.

Many people with dyslexia are highly creative, big-picture thinkers who thrive in problem-solving but struggle with seemingly “simple” tasks like remembering instructions or distinguishing left from right. Some of the world’s most successful figures, such as Richard Branson and Steven Spielberg, have dyslexia, proving that traditional academic struggles do not define intelligence or future success.

Common and Uncommon Signs of Dyslexia

Well-Known Signs:

✔ Difficulty with reading – Words may appear jumbled, or reading might feel exhausting.

✔ Struggles with spelling and writing – Even after practice, spelling rules don’t seem to stick.

✔ Mixing up similar-looking letters – Like b and d or p and q.

✔ Slow reading speed – Taking longer to process written words.

Less-Known Signs:

✔ Strong verbal skills but difficulty writing – You may be articulate in conversation but find it hard to get your thoughts onto paper.

✔ Challenges with left and right – Often getting directions mixed up or struggling with spatial awareness.

✔ Trouble remembering sequences – Like months of the year, phone numbers, or multi-step instructions.

✔ High intelligence with low confidence – Feeling capable yet constantly second-guessing yourself due to past struggles.

✔ A strong preference for verbal over written communication – You may learn best through discussion rather than reading.

Should You Get Tested for Dyslexia?

If you recognise yourself in these signs, you might be wondering what to do next. Formal dyslexia testing is the only way to receive a definitive diagnosis, but there are steps you can take beforehand:

1️⃣ Start with a Dyslexia Screening – Free or low-cost dyslexia screeners are available online. These won’t provide a diagnosis but can indicate whether further testing is worth considering. We recommend the Made by Dyslexia screener, which you can find in our Resource Centre.

2️⃣ Self-Reflection – Keep a journal of your difficulties and any patterns you’ve noticed. Writing down your experiences can help clarify whether dyslexia might be a factor.

3️⃣ Seek a Professional Dyslexia Assessment – A full diagnostic assessment by an educational psychologist or specialist can confirm dyslexia and provide recommendations for support. We recommend the British Dyslexia Association for in-person assessments in the UK or the Dyslexia Test Centre for virtual assessments worldwide. Both can be found in our Resource Centre.

While private assessments can be costly, some charities and educational institutions offer funding or subsidised options.

Dyslexia Support: What Happens After a Diagnosis?

For many, discovering they are dyslexic is a turning point. It’s not about labelling yourself—it’s about understanding yourself. It’s about realising that past struggles weren’t due to a lack of effort or ability, but a difference in how your brain works. Knowing this can open doors to the right support, strategies, and self-acceptance.

Once you have a dyslexia diagnosis, or even if you strongly suspect you are dyslexic, there are many dyslexia support options available to help you navigate education, work, and daily life:

🎧 Assistive Technology for Dyslexia – Tools like text-to-speech software, Grammarly, and audiobooks can make reading and writing easier.

🏢 Workplace Adjustments for Dyslexia – Under the Equality Act 2010, UK employers are required to provide reasonable adjustments such as extra time for tasks, dictation software, or flexible working conditions.

📚 Educational Support for Dyslexic Students – Schools and universities offer additional support like study skills tutoring, extra exam time, and one-to-one assistance.

🌍 Dyslexia Organisations & Resources – Groups like Pro Dyslexic offer dyslexia resources, guidance, and a community where dyslexic individuals can share experiences and find solutions tailored to their needs.

Take the First Step in Understanding Dyslexia

Dyslexia isn’t something to “fix.” It’s a unique way of thinking that comes with strengths as well as challenges. If you think you might be dyslexic, taking the first step towards understanding is one of the best things you can do for yourself.

And you don’t have to do it alone—there’s a whole dyslexia support community out there, ready to help you. 💙

📢 Need Support? Let’s Connect!

At Pro Dyslexic, we’re here to help. Whether you're exploring dyslexia testing, looking for workplace adjustments, or need study support, we offer resources and guidance to support you on your journey.

🔗 Explore Dyslexia Support Now 📩 Get in Touch with Pro Dyslexic

By taking action today, you can embrace your strengths and find the support you deserve! 🚀

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