Evaluate symptoms of the inattentive subtype of ADHD (formerly known as ADD), including difficulty sustaining attention, daydreaming, and organizational challenges.
Inattentive ADHD (previously called ADD) is characterized by difficulty sustaining attention, being easily distracted, forgetfulness, and poor organizational skills — without the hyperactive component. People with this subtype often appear quiet and dreamy, which can make it harder to diagnose. This test focuses specifically on inattentive symptoms.
This test is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a diagnostic tool and should not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing distress, please consult a licensed healthcare provider.
Predominantly Inattentive ADHD (formerly called ADD) is the ADHD presentation characterised primarily by difficulty sustaining attention, following through on tasks, and organising activities — without significant hyperactivity or impulsivity. It's the presentation most commonly missed, particularly in adults.
People with inattentive ADHD are often described as 'daydreamers' or 'not living up to their potential'. The external behaviour is less disruptive than hyperactive ADHD, so it's easier to overlook — especially in educational settings where sitting still is valued over sustained focus.
Inattentive ADHD is more common in women than men and is substantially under-identified in both. Many adults with inattentive ADHD have spent years developing coping strategies and may appear to function well on the surface while expending enormous effort to do so.
Common experiences include: difficulty starting tasks (especially boring or repetitive ones), getting easily distracted by irrelevant thoughts or external stimuli, losing track of the thread in conversations, frequently misplacing items, making careless mistakes on routine tasks, and difficulty following through on commitments despite intending to.
Hyperfocus is the less-discussed flip side of inattentive ADHD — the ability to become intensely absorbed in tasks that are interesting or stimulating. This inconsistency (can't focus on taxes; can hyperfocus on a hobby for 8 hours) is often confusing and can lead to dismissal of ADHD concerns ('but you can focus when you want to').
Time blindness — difficulty perceiving and managing time — is a core feature. People with inattentive ADHD often underestimate how long tasks take, are frequently late, and feel like time passes without them noticing.