"Official" Definition
The International Dyslexia Association adopted the following definition of dyslexia in 2002. This definition has also been adopted by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD):

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.

Just the Facts
There is a wealth of information in the "Just the Facts" sheets published by the International Dyslexia Association®. Selected facts sheets are included on this web site under the "Just the Facts" button.

Online Resources
The National IDA website, www.interdys.org, has a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about dyslexia with answers to the following questions ( as of August, 2003):

• What is Dyslexia?
• Are there other learning disabilities besides dyslexia?
• Are Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) learning disabilities?
• How common are language-based learning disabilities?
• Can individuals who are dyslexic learn to read?
• How do people get dyslexia?
• Is there a cure for dyslexia?
• Are there specific professions people with dyslexia should pursue?
• How do I know if a person is dyslexic?
• is Dyslexia Identified?

The National website also includes information about the signs of dyslexia broken down by age groups:

• Preschool
• K through 4
• Gades 5 through 8
• High school and college
• Adult