Learning disabilities are characterized by intra-individual differences, usually in the form of a discrepancy between a student's ability and his or her achievement in areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, or speaking. Although they cannot be the primary problem, some students with LD also have difficulties with social relations. Learning disabilities are conditions that cause a discrepancy between potential and actual levels of academic performance as predicted by the person's intellectual abilities. Learning disabilities involve impairments or difficulties in concentration or attention, language development, or visual and aural information processing. Learning disabilities are often referred to as "hidden handicaps" as they are difficult to identify. The kinds and severity of problems vary from individual to individual.

Learning disabilities are neurologically based and may interfere with the acquisition and use of listening, speaking, reading, writing, reasoning, or mathematical skills. They affect the manner in which individuals with average or above average intellectual abilities process and/or express information. Learning disabilities are a common problem in the pediatric population. Some individuals with learning disabilities also have difficulty in areas such as memory or mathematical calculations. Learning disabilities are caused by a difference in brain structure that is present at birth and is often hereditary. They affect the way the brain processes information.

Learning disabilities are lifelong, and although they won't go away, they don't have to stop a person from setting high standards and achieving realistic goals. Learning disabilities affect every person differently, and the disorder can range from mild to severe. Learning disabilities are often complex and confusing issues, not only for the students involved but also for their parents and teachers. Part of this confusion comes about because the term learning disability has different meanings within and outside of the public school environment. Learning disabilities are not caused by economic disadvantage, environmental factors or cultural differences. In fact, according to the National Center for Learning Disabilities, there is frequently no apparent cause for learning disabilities.