Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty which makes it hard for some people to learn to read, write and spell correctly. The Report of the Task Force on Dyslexia -2001 (available to download on this page) provides the following definition:
"Dyslexia is manifested in a continuum of specific learning difficulties related to the acquisition of basic skills in reading, spelling and/or writing, such difficulties being unexplained in relation to an individual's other abilities and educational experiences.
Dyslexia can be described at the neurological, cognitive and behavioural levels. It is typically characterised by inefficient information processing, including difficulties in phonological processing, working memory, rapid naming and automaticity of basic skills. Difficulties in organisation, sequencing and motor skills may also be present. (p.31)"