If the lecture was a quick paced factual presentation I'd try to get down the important info. I didn't worry about spelling or grammar I just got it down on paper but it did have to be clear enough for me to follow when I looked back over my notes!

This may have been in the form of a quick diagram or sketch, short sentence or related key words.

After the lecture I'd take a few moments to add to and read through my notes while it was fresh in my mind!

It's always important to remember that most lecturers will be happy to supply or email copies of the lectures notes on to you if you explain you are dyslexic.

However it can sometimes feel a bit embarrassing or just a pain to follow this up, so I personally found the quicker note taking combined with the normal hand outs gave me the info and support I needed.

Just remember they can be as messy and not spelt correctly as you like they are your initial notes that are a tool for YOU and you only. You can make them neater and correct the grammar away from the lecture. The important thing is to get the information down.

Computer Work

If I hadn't had my computer I would have given up when it came to written work!

If possible get a computer word processing programme that highlights the grammar and spelling errors. This has helped me greatly.

If I have an essay or long written project to write I break it up into stages(Introduction- middle- end) I then blast out all my thoughts and research within these sections not worrying to much about spelling or grammar.

I then read back over correcting where I can, making sure it reads 'well'

I tend to leave the full proof reading until the very end. This enables me to move and jiggle text around throughout the writing process.

When I have written a long essay or written piece I always get it proof read by a member of the family. Try to find someone who has a good eye for grammar and spelling. If there's no one available at home tutors or teaching staff will help. Just make sure you allow time within your deadlines for amendments!

Being Dyslexic at University

I took Textile Design at University and was amazed how many people were dyslexics on my course. There is lots of help and advice available to students about handling situations and working with dyslexia. Extended deadlines, funding, equipment for coursework and products is just some of the benefits available.

I personally didn't make the most out of the facilities available while I studied and feel I could have made some situations less stressful if I had done so!