[Screener] Dysgraphia in Adults

Reviewed by Kendra Wagner, M.A.

The learning disability associated with writing is known as dysgraphia. The word comes from the Greek “dys,” meaning “impaired,” and “graphia,” meaning “writing by hand” — and dysgraphia is, in essence, an impairment in one’s ability to write by hand. But it also can also affect other fine motor skills, like tying shoes, as well as the thought processes involved in writing: organizing thoughts, following rules of grammar, and spelling words correctly.

Dysgraphia is one of the most frequently missed learning disabilities — meaning that many people with the condition get to adulthood without knowing there was a specific cause for their writing-related difficulties. Why is it so often missed or misunderstood? Because it appears to others instead like writing anxiety or laziness or even carelessness. In some cases, this leads to adults with dysgraphia struggling with self-esteem or feelings of inferiority — feelings that an accurate diagnosis can help put a stop to. But a diagnosis can bring more than just relief — it can also open the doorway to accommodations at work, occupational therapy, and an improved outlook on life.

Take the results of this screener test to an occupational therapist in private practice. who can help you determine whether your symptoms truly align with dysgraphia — and work with you to devise interventions that addresses your challenges and builds up weak skills.

This screener is created from criteria found on the website of the Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA). This is not a diagnostic tool. If you have concerns about the possibility of dysgraphia, see a health professional. An accurate diagnosis can only be made through clinical evaluation. This screener is for personal use only.