Students with learning disabilities (LD) require structured, individualized approaches to studying that account for challenges in information processing, retention, and executive function. Research and expert recommendations emphasize that traditional study methods often fail these students without targeted adaptations. The most effective strategies combine direct skill instruction, accommodations, and techniques tailored to specific cognitive needs—such as breaking tasks into smaller steps, using multi-sensory tools, and incorporating movement or repetition. Success depends on consistency, self-awareness, and leveraging available support systems like IEPs, learning specialists, or assistive technology.

Key findings from the sources include:

• Direct instruction in study skills is critical, as students with LD rarely develop these strategies independently ^[1].
• Multi-sensory techniques (e.g., flashcards, games, read-along methods) improve engagement and retention ^[2][3].
• Structured routines and environmental controls (e.g., distraction-free spaces, scheduled breaks) address executive function deficits ^[5][9].
• Accommodations and assistive technology (e.g., extra time, note-sharing, educational videos) level the playing field ^[2][8].

Evidence-Based Study Strategies for Learning Disabilities

Core Study Skills and Instructional Approaches

Students with learning disabilities often struggle with organization, time management, and information retention due to underlying executive function challenges. Explicit, hierarchical instruction in study skills—taught systematically rather than assumed—can bridge these gaps. Joan Sedita, an educator specializing in learning strategies, argues that students with LD require "direct, methodical instruction" to develop skills like note-taking, summarization, and self-monitoring, which neurotypical peers may absorb incidentally ^[1]. Without this foundation, even well-intentioned accommodations may fail to address root causes of academic difficulty.

Key components of effective study skill instruction include:

• Hierarchical teaching: Start with foundational skills (e.g., organizing materials) before advancing to complex tasks (e.g., essay outlines) ^[1].
• Modeling and guided practice: Teachers should demonstrate skills like highlighting key text or using graphic organizers, then supervise students as they replicate the process ^[7].
• Integrated classroom application: Study strategies should be embedded in regular coursework, not taught in isolation. For example, a history teacher might model how to create a timeline (a graphic organizer) while covering the Civil War ^[1].
• Notebook systems: Structured binders with color-coded sections for notes, assignments, and handouts reduce disorganization, a common barrier for students with LD ^[1].

Research from the IRIS Center supports this approach, noting that students with LD and ADHD often lack "executive function strategies" to plan, initiate, and complete tasks. Explicit instruction in strategies like the PQRST method (Preview, Question, Read, State, Test) or mnemonic devices (e.g., acronyms for memorization) can improve academic performance by up to 30% in some cases ^[7]. Erin, a student featured in the IRIS module, reported that learning these strategies in high school transformed her from a "struggling student" to one who could independently manage college-level work ^[7].

Practical Techniques and Accommodations

Beyond instructional methods, specific techniques and accommodations can mitigate the daily challenges of learning disabilities. These fall into three broad categories: environmental adaptations, task modifications, and assistive tools.

Environmental Adaptations Creating a conducive study space is particularly critical for students with ADHD or executive dysfunction. The article from Done First recommends:

• Distraction-free workspaces: Designate a quiet area with minimal visual clutter, using tools like noise-canceling headphones or white noise apps ^[5].
• Movement integration: Allow for short breaks every 20–30 minutes to walk, stretch, or use a fidget tool, as physical activity can reset focus ^[3][5].
• Consistent routines: Schedule study sessions at the same time daily to build habits. For example, a student might review flashcards for 15 minutes immediately after dinner ^[3].

Task Modifications Breaking assignments into smaller, manageable parts—known as chunking—reduces overwhelm. CollegeXpress advises:

• Divide a 10-page reading assignment into 2-page segments with a 5-minute summary after each ^[9].
• Use the Pomodoro Technique: Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat for 4 cycles, then take a longer break ^[9].
• Active learning techniques like the Feynman Method (explaining concepts aloud in simple terms) or Leitner flashcard systems (prioritizing difficult cards) improve retention ^[9].

Assistive Tools and Accommodations Legal accommodations and technology can provide critical support. The Learning Disabilities Association of America highlights:

• Read-along techniques: Pairing audiobooks with printed text (e.g., Learning Ally) helps students with dyslexia process information ^[2].
• Note-sharing: Providing teacher or peer notes reduces the cognitive load during lectures ^[2].
• Educational videos: Platforms like Khan Academy offer visual explanations of complex topics, benefiting auditory and visual learners ^[2].
• IEPs/504 Plans: These legal documents can mandate accommodations such as extended test time, oral exams, or preferential seating ^[2][8].

For college students, Smart Kids with LD emphasizes proactive use of campus resources:

• Schedule weekly meetings with a learning specialist to review progress and adjust strategies ^[8].
• Take practice tests under timed conditions to build stamina for exams ^[8].
• Disclose LD status to access accommodations like private testing rooms or speech-to-text software ^[8].

Specialized Strategies for ADHD and Comorbid Disabilities

Students with ADHD—who may or may not have a co-occurring learning disability—require additional strategies to manage attention and impulsivity. Done First notes that 30–50% of children with ADHD also have a learning disability, complicating academic performance ^[5]. Effective approaches for this group include:

• Repetition and overlearning: Review material multiple times beyond initial mastery to counteract forgetfulness ^[5].
• Body doubling: Study alongside a peer or tutor (in person or virtually) to maintain accountability ^[5].
• Medication management: For some students, ADHD medication improves focus during study sessions, though this should be monitored by a healthcare provider ^[5].

The CES Schools blog suggests incorporating multi-sensory techniques to engage different neural pathways:

• Flashcards with images: Pairing visuals with text (e.g., a diagram of a cell alongside its label) aids memory ^[3].
• Songs and rhymes: Turning facts into lyrics (e.g., the "Quadratic Formula Song") leverages musical memory ^[3].
• Kinesthetic learning: Writing vocabulary words in sand trays or using letter tiles for spelling ^[2].

For older students, CollegeXpress recommends self-monitoring tools like apps that track study time or block distracting websites. The Leitner flashcard system, which prioritizes difficult material, is particularly effective for students with working memory deficits ^[9].