Consider these ADHD Reading Help Tips

ADHD Reading Help from a paper copy:

  • Convert text to audio

  • Provide larger print

  • Double space the text on print material



  • Use color overlays (Irlen lenses) to help make the text easier to read

  • Provide materials that are type-written, in a font that is not italicized; if handwritten material must be provided, use print, not cursive

  • Have someone read the document aloud to the individual

  • Have the individual read the document aloud

  • Scan the documents into a computer and use Optical Character Recognition (OCR), which will read the information aloud

  • Use a reading pen, which is a portable device that scans a word and provides auditory feedback

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ADHD Tips: Help with Computer Reading:

  • Use voice output software, also called screen reading software, which highlights and reads aloud the information from the computer screen

  • Use form-generating software that computerizes order forms, claim forms, applications, equations, and formula fields

  • Use manual or electric line guide to help individuals "keep their place" on the computer monitor

  • Alter color scheme on computer screen to suit the individual's visual (White background may be hard on the eyes)

  • Adjust the font on computer screen to suit the individual's visual preferences

This information was provided by the Job Accommodation Network Website.

Reading is a difficult task with ADHD. I tell people that I don't like to read. Maybe you have said this or heard the same phrase. The reason I don't like to read is because my brain can't concentrate on the words. It also is a little difficult to sit down and read when my body wants to move around.

When I try to read, I will spend 20 minutes reading a page a couple times before I realize that I have read the page many times. It is very frustrating and I feel a waste of time. Why should I sit there and read something that isn't processing.

This may be the same reason others say they don't like reading. The reading help tips listed above mention converting to audio.

I like audio much better. I still have to listen to it several times to get what is being said. The same problem with reading exists with audio. The information goes in while my brain is thinking about 20 other things.

Recently I have been doing a lot more reading. I also have been doing better with focusing and concentrating on what I am reading. A vitamin and mineral supplement combined with diet dramatically changed how my body and brain act.

I read and comprehend without reading paragraphs over and over again on every page.

TJ Chambers

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