Dysgraphia: Signs, Assessment and Support

Dysgraphia is a specific learning disorder that affects a person's ability to write. In the DSM-5 it falls under the diagnosis of Specific Learning Disorder, with impairment in written expression. It can affect the physical act of forming letters by hand, the ability to organise thoughts on paper, or both. Like dyslexia and dyscalculia, dysgraphia is not related to intelligence – many people with dysgraphia are bright and articulate verbally, but struggle specifically to get their thoughts into writing.

Signs of Dysgraphia

Dysgraphia can show up in different ways. Signs are generally grouped into two categories:

Motor-Based Signs

• Poor or inconsistent letter formation, and difficulty with letter sizing and spacing
• An awkward or unusual pencil grip, or difficulty holding a pen or pencil comfortably
• Reversing letters or numbers well past the age when this is typical
• Difficulty writing in a straight line, or staying within margins
• Handwriting that is slow, effortful, or tiring to produce

Language-Based Signs

• Frequent spelling mistakes, even for familiar or previously learned words
• Grammar and punctuation errors that seem inconsistent with the child's spoken language
• Difficulty organising thoughts on paper, even when the same ideas can be explained clearly out loud
• Omitted or misordered words or letters within sentences
• Avoidance of writing tasks, or a large gap between written and verbal ability

Causes and Related Conditions

The exact cause of dysgraphia isn't fully understood, but it appears to have a genetic component and often runs in families. It frequently overlaps with other conditions, including dyslexia, ADHD and difficulties with fine motor coordination (dyspraxia). As with other specific learning disorders, a comprehensive assessment helps clarify whether dysgraphia is occurring on its own or alongside another condition that also needs to be addressed.

How is Dysgraphia Assessed?

There is no single medical test for dysgraphia. Assessment typically looks at a person's learning strengths and weaknesses, the extent and type of writing difficulty, and how they respond to targeted teaching strategies. At BNC, this can include a cognitive (IQ) assessment alongside standardised academic achievement testing (such as the WIAT), a review of writing samples, and visuomotor tests such as the Beery Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration where fine motor and visual-motor skills are a concern. We also take a detailed developmental and educational history.

Assessment and Support at BNC

Our psychologists provide comprehensive learning assessments for children, adolescents and adults, both in person and via Telehealth. A GP referral (Mental Health Treatment Plan or paediatrician referral) may allow you to claim a Medicare rebate for eligible sessions. Following assessment, we provide a detailed report with practical recommendations for school, home and, where relevant, occupational therapy or tutoring support. There is no medication for dysgraphia, but accommodations, targeted teaching and, where needed, remediation of handwriting or typing skills can make a substantial difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Updated on:  23 August 2026 by: Dr Jacques Duff – BA Psych; Grad Dip Psych; PhD; MAPS; MECNS; MAAAPB; MISNR; FANSA