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How can organisational skills be taught to individuals with ADHD Combined Type?

Teaching organisational skills to someone with ADHD Combined Type is not just about calendars and checklists, it is about reshaping how the brain approaches tasks, time, and clutter. Since ADHD symptoms directly affect executive function, traditional advice often falls flat without customisation and reinforcement.

With the right approach, however, these skills can be taught, practised, and internalised becoming a key part of long-term ADHD management. The goal is not perfection but progress, supported by empathy and practical structure. 

Strategies That Stick 

Organisational systems need to be simple, visual, and flexible. Here is how to help someone with ADHD symptoms build lasting habits: 

Start with one system at a time 

 Whether it is a homework folder, morning checklist, or digital planner, introducing too much at once can lead to overwhelm and abandonment. Simplicity supports better stress management. 

Use external cues and reminders 

Sticky notes, alarms, or visual labels reduce reliance on memory, which is often impaired in individuals with learning disabilities and ADHD. 

Practise with real tasks 

Organising should happen in context: planning a school project, preparing for a trip, or tidying a bedroom. When it feels relevant, learning is more likely to stick to it. 

Get the family involved 

Consistency across environments improves results. Family therapy can support shared systems at home and reinforce routines without conflict. 

Celebrate small wins 

ADHD is often accompanied by years of criticism. Acknowledging even small achievements helps rebuild confidence and motivates ongoing progress. 

Teaching organisation is an act of support, not correction. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and structured coaching in ADHD management..For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Combined ADHD.

Victoria Rowe, MSc, author for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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.