If you’re a dyslexic student struggling with reading and writing, I get it—it can feel exhausting. You know you’re smart, you have great ideas, but when it comes to getting them on paper or reading a textbook, everything slows down.
The good news? You don’t need to learn the “traditional” way to be successful. There are strategies, tools, and tricks that can make studying easier, less stressful, and even fun. This guide is packed with real, practical tips that have helped many dyslexic students (including me!) navigate school successfully.
So, let’s dive into strategies that work.
Use Your Strengths: Learning in a Way That Works for You
Dyslexia doesn’t mean you’re bad at learning—it just means you learn differently. Instead of fighting against it, let’s work with your strengths.
Do you remember things better when you hear them? Listen to audiobooks instead of reading. Do you love art? Use mind maps and doodles to study. Hate writing notes? Record voice memos instead.
The key is to use methods that make sense to YOUR brain.
10 Practical Study Tips for Dyslexic Students
1. Use Audiobooks & Text-to-Speech Tools
Let’s be real—reading long textbooks can feel like torture. Instead, try listening to the material:
✅ Use audiobooks for novels and textbooks (Apps like Learning Ally & Audible help).
✅ Try text-to-speech software like Speechify, NaturalReader, or VoiceOver on your phone.
✅ Listen while moving—walk around or doodle while listening to stay engaged.
Hearing the words instead of struggling to read them can make studying so much easier.
2. Record Your Own Notes
Instead of writing everything down (which can take forever), record yourself speaking. Try this:
🎙️ Summarize lessons into voice notes.
🎧 Listen to your own recordings before a test.
🗣️ Say key facts out loud—it helps lock them into memory.
3. Use Colored Paper or Backgrounds
Did you know white paper can make words “move” or blur for dyslexic students? Try this:
🟡 Print or write on light-colored paper (yellow or blue works well).
💻 Change the background color on your screen (use a beige or pastel shade).
📖 Use colored overlays when reading books.
This small trick can make reading much clearer.
4. Mind Maps & Doodles Instead of Traditional Notes
If long paragraphs overwhelm you, visual learning is your best friend.
🧠 Draw a mind map with pictures and arrows instead of writing sentences.
🎨 Use different colors for different ideas—it helps with memory.
📌 Sticky notes with keywords can break information into bite-sized pieces.
Example: Instead of writing long history notes, draw a timeline with doodles of key events.
5. Use Speech-to-Text for Writing Assignments
Typing or handwriting essays can be exhausting. Instead, talk to your device and let it type for you.
🖥️ Use Google Docs Voice Typing (free on Chrome).
📱 Try Dragon NaturallySpeaking or your phone’s dictation feature.
📝 Speak full sentences out loud before correcting errors.
It’s SO much faster than struggling with spelling.
6. Take Breaks & Move Around
Sitting still and reading for hours? No thanks. Your brain learns better when you take breaks.
🔄 Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break (Pomodoro technique).
🚶 Walk around while reviewing your notes.
🧘 Do quick stretches or listen to music between sessions.
This keeps your energy up and prevents burnout.
7. Use a Homework Planner or Digital Calendar
If keeping track of assignments feels impossible, use a visual planner:
📝 Write homework in a color-coded planner.
📅 Use apps like Google Calendar or Todoist for reminders.
⏳ Set alarms for deadlines and study times.
Having a plan helps you feel in control instead of overwhelmed.
8. Use Mnemonics & Memory Tricks
If memorizing facts is tough, turn them into something fun:
🔡 Use acronyms (PEMDAS = Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, etc.).
🎶 Make up a silly song or rhyme to remember tricky words.
📖 Create a story where facts are characters in an adventure.
Example: To remember “necessary”, think: “One collar (C), two socks (S).”
9. Advocate for Yourself (It’s Okay to Ask for Help!)
Your teachers want to help you—they just need to know what works for you. Don’t be afraid to ask for:
🎓 Extra time on tests (many schools offer this for dyslexic students).
📚 Printed notes or digital versions of books instead of handwritten ones.
🗣️ Oral exams instead of written ones (if that helps you show what you know better).
You deserve support—don’t be shy about asking for it.
10. Study with a Friend or Group
Studying alone can be frustrating, so try learning with someone else:
👫 Teach a friend what you learned (teaching helps you remember better).
🎭 Act out history events or quiz each other aloud.
📢 Say things out loud instead of writing them down.
This makes studying more fun and effective.
FAQs
How can I improve my reading skills as a dyslexic student?
Try listening to audiobooks while following along with the text, use dyslexia-friendly fonts like OpenDyslexic, and read in short bursts with breaks.
What’s the best way to take notes if I struggle with writing?
Use mind maps, voice recordings, or color-coded sticky notes instead of long paragraphs.
Are there any good apps for dyslexic students?
Yes! Try Speechify (text-to-speech), Google Docs Voice Typing (speech-to-text), and Trello (task management).
What should I do if I get overwhelmed during tests?
Ask for extra time, read questions aloud, use a highlighter for keywords, and take deep breaths.
Can I be successful in school if I have dyslexia?
Absolutely! Many successful people (like Albert Einstein & Steve Jobs) were dyslexic. You just need to study in a way that works for YOU.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
Dyslexia might make reading and writing tough, but it does NOT define your intelligence.
With the right study techniques—audiobooks, speech-to-text, mind maps, and movement-based learning—you can learn just as well as anyone else.
The key is to find what works best for YOU and never be afraid to ask for help.
💡 You are smart. You are capable. And you’ve got this! 💡
