How does ADHD affect reading comprehension? 

Many people with ADHD find that reading can feel like hard work, especially when trying to remember or make sense of what they’ve just read. According to NICE guidance (NG87), ADHD can affect concentration, working memory and processing speed, all key skills needed to understand written material. Even when decoding words is easy, holding ideas in mind and linking them together can be more difficult. 

Why reading comprehension can be harder in ADHD 

Research suggests that people with ADHD often have weaker executive functions, such as working memory and sustained attention, which support reading comprehension. A 2024 neuroimaging study found that limited working-memory activity in ADHD reduces deeper understanding of text. Similarly, a 2023 study of university students reported that differences in comprehension were strongly linked to executive-function measures like attention, planning and inhibition. 

Supporting better reading focus 

Educational and clinical guidance highlight the value of structure and visual support. The NHS ADHD booklet for adults recommends breaking reading into smaller sections, using summaries, and allowing extra time. NICE also advises using written and visual aids to help people with ADHD manage complex information and tasks. 

Key takeaway 

Reading comprehension challenges in ADHD are not about intelligence or effort. They stem from how the brain manages attention and working memory. With practical strategies, environmental support and professional guidance, people with ADHD can strengthen comprehension and enjoy reading with greater confidence. 

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.