Dysgraphia
Local Providers for Dysgraphia
What dysgraphia is
Dysgraphia is a specific learning difficulty that affects handwriting, spelling, and written expression.
It can impact the ability to form letters, organise thoughts on paper, or write fluently, even when ideas are clear.
Dysgraphia is not linked to low intelligence. With targeted strategies and tools, individuals can learn to communicate effectively in writing.
Related guidance
- Dyslexia
- Dyscalculia
- Dyspraxia
- Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD)
- SEN Wellbeing
Signs and symptoms
People with dysgraphia may:
- have messy, inconsistent or slow handwriting
- struggle to space letters or keep writing on the line
- find copying from the board difficult
- spell phonetically or inconsistently
- feel physical discomfort when writing
- perform better in oral tasks than written ones
Check signs of dysgraphia
Learn how to identify handwriting and written expression difficulties early.
Causes and contributing factors
Dysgraphia can result from differences in motor coordination or language processing.
Common contributing factors include:
- fine motor control difficulties
- co-occurring conditions like ADHD or dyslexia
- lack of early handwriting practice or inconsistent instruction
- anxiety or fatigue affecting writing fluency
Learn what causes dysgraphia
Understand how motor skills, coordination and language combine in writing.
Getting assessed and diagnosed
Assessment may be carried out by:
- an educational psychologist
- a specialist teacher
- an occupational therapist (for motor-based issues)
Assessment usually involves handwriting analysis, spelling evaluation, and written expression tasks.
A diagnosis can help secure learning accommodations and targeted support.
Support in education
Support for dysgraphia may include:
- typing or using a laptop instead of handwriting
- extra time for written tasks and exams
- handwriting or fine-motor exercises
- visual and multisensory writing aids
- one-to-one writing intervention sessions
If handwriting difficulties affect progress, an EHCP or SEN support plan can help.
Teaching and writing strategies
Helpful strategies include:
- focusing on clear structure and planning before writing
- using mind maps or voice-to-text tools
- breaking writing tasks into smaller sections
- allowing oral or digital alternatives where possible
- praising effort and content over handwriting appearance