Diagnosing Dyslexia

The process of identifying possible problems with dyslexia, then testing and diagnosing it, follows these general stages:

1. Screening Tests

Screening tests are quick and easy tests, usually in the form of questionnaires, to separate possible dyslexics from those who are completely symptom free.

 With children, one of the first screening tests is made by teachers just observing how their students learn and progress. Those with problems in keeping up with the rest of the class are usually screened out for detailed testing.

With adults, screening tests are usually made in the form of questionnaires asking about a list of possible dyslexia symptoms. Those that report symptoms associated with dyslexia and common to dyslexics are screened out for full testing.

[You can go here if you want to take a screening test: Am I Dyslexic]

2. Full Dyslexia Testing

Dyslexia takes many forms and there are many different possible dyslexia characteristics. Only by a full and comprehensive test can you determine which, if any, dyslexia characteristics are present and, if present, to what degree.

Full dyslexia testing is done by trained professionals who administer the tests and interact with the test subjects.

[You can go here if you want to take a full dyslexia test: Adult Dyslexia Test]

3. Diagnosing Dyslexia

Once the full dyslexia testing is complete it can be evaluated by the trained professionals who will use the test results in either diagnosing dyslexia if the test is positive or ruling it out if the test is negative.

Sometimes additional testing is called for. Usually this will be the case if problem areas are identified, areas that may need to be explored in more detail to determine the exact dimensions and extent of the problem.