The Facts about Dyslexia
9th October 2025
The facts about dyslexia. Dyslexia is one of the most common specific learning differences, and it brings both challenges and strengths. Unfortunately, a few persistent myths still shape how people think about it. By clearing up these misunderstandings, we can better support learners and celebrate the many strengths that often come with dyslexia.
Paula, owner of Tutor Tailor and an accredited British Dyslexia Association (BDA) specialist, is passionate about helping learners reach their potential through understanding, empathy, and evidence-based support.
Myth 1: Dyslexia is just about seeing letters jumbled
Reality: Dyslexia is not a visual problem. It’s primarily a difference in how the brain processes language, particularly the sounds, organisation, and sequencing of words.
Many people believe that dyslexic learners see letters flipped or jumbled (for example, confusing “b” and “d”). While letter reversals can occur when children are first learning to write, they’re not unique to dyslexia. The real challenges usually lie in phonological processing, working memory, and processing speed — not eyesight. That said, some individuals with dyslexia also experience visual processing difficulties, such as visual stress or difficulty tracking text on a page. These issues can make reading uncomfortable or tiring, but they are separate from dyslexia itself. When they occur together, addressing both the language-based and visual aspects can make reading much easier and more enjoyable.
Myth 2: If someone can read, they can’t be dyslexic
Reality: Dyslexia exists on a spectrum and many people with dyslexia can read. However, reading may take more effort, be slower, or feel less fluent. They might also struggle with spelling, organising ideas, or recalling words quickly. Being able to read doesn’t mean someone isn’t dyslexic; it just means they’ve developed effective strategies to manage their learning difference. Many draw on their strengths, such as strong visual memory, good verbal reasoning, or an ability to use context and word structure (morphology) to make sense of unfamiliar vocabulary.
Myth 3: Dyslexia means someone is less intelligent
Reality: There is no link between dyslexia and intelligence…research shows that it occurs across a range of intellingences. Dyslexia is about how the brain processes certain aspects of language, not how intelligent someone is.
In fact, many people with dyslexia excel in creative thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Some of the world’s greatest thinkers, inventors, and entrepreneurs have been dyslexic.
Myth 4: Dyslexia can be “outgrown”
Reality: Dyslexia is a lifelong learning difference but with the right support, its impact can be greatly reduced. Early identification, structured teaching, and tailored strategies help learners build skills and confidence. A structured programme that is phonics based, sequential and cumulative can have a huge impact.
The aim isn’t to “fix” dyslexia, but to empower individuals to understand how they learn best and to use their strengths to succeed.
Myth 5: Dyslexia only affects reading, writing, and spelling
Reality: Dyslexia can also affect organisation, memory, time management, sequencing, and processing speed. These less obvious difficulties can be just as challenging as reading and spelling, especially in busy school or work environments.
That’s why understanding each learner’s unique profile is so important ; no two people with dyslexia experience it in exactly the same way
Myth 6: Technology makes support unnecessary
Reality: While technology can be transformative, from text-to-speech software to predictive spelling tools, it doesn’t replace structured teaching or skilled support. Instead, it complements it.
When used thoughtfully, assistive technology can level the playing field, allowing learners to demonstrate their true understanding without being held back by spelling or handwriting. But human guidance, encouragement, and teaching strategies remain at the heart of effective dyslexia support.
Myth 7: Dyslexia is more common in boys than girls
Reality: Research shows that dyslexia affects boys and girls in roughly equal numbers. However, boys are often identified earlier because they may show more outward signs of struggle in the classroom. Girls, on the other hand, often mask their difficulties with strong verbal skills meaning their dyslexia can go unnoticed for longer.
Raising awareness among teachers, parents, and tutors helps ensure that girls as well as boys get the support they need to thrive.
Myth 8: Dyslexia means you can’t succeed academically
Reality: Many people with dyslexia go on to achieve highly in education. including at university and beyond. With the right support, tailored strategies, and confidence in their learning style, there are no limits to what dyslexic learners can achieve.
In fact, their ability to think creatively, connect ideas, and see patterns often gives them an edge in problem-solving and innovation. These are skills that are highly valued in education and the workplace alike.
Why understanding matters
When we replace myths with knowledge, we open the door to empathy, confidence, and growth. Effective support isn’t about one-size-fits-all solutions — it’s about using evidence-based strategies, building on strengths, and helping each learner develop the tools that work best for them.
At Tutor Tailor, Paula specialises in supporting students with dyslexia and related learning differences, drawing on her British Dyslexia Association (BDA) accreditation and years of practical experience. Her approach focuses on creating a safe, positive learning environment where every student feels understood, capable, and valued.
If you’d like to learn more about dyslexia or explore reliable support and resources, visit the British Dyslexia Association (BDA) website:
