ADHD is divided into 3 subtypes:

• predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation
• predominantly inattentive presentation
• combined presentation

The predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation is characterized by the following symptoms or traits:

• Fidgets or taps with hands or feet or squirms in their seat
• Often leaves their seat in situations where remaining seated is expected, like in the classroom or workplace
• In children, often runs or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate
• In adults, often feeling restless
• Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly
• Always “on the go” acting “as if driven by a motor”
• Often talks excessively
• Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed
• Often has difficulty waiting his or her turn
• Often interrupts or intrudes on others

The predominantly inattentive presentation is characterized by the following symptoms or traits:

• Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes
• Often has difficulty sustaining attention
• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• Often does not follow through on instructions or fails to finish things (starts tasks but quickly loses focus and is easily side-tracked)
• Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
• Often avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort
• Often loses things
• Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
• Is often forgetful in daily activities

The combined presentation is characterized by symptoms or traits of both hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention.