What is the difference between ADHD-inattentive and ADHD-hyperactive types?
DSM-5 describes three ADHD presentations: inattentive (formerly "ADD"), hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. Combined type is most common. Inattentive type is the most frequently missed — particularly in women and girls — because it presents without the disruptive hyperactivity that gets noticed in classrooms.
| Feature | Inattentive | Hyperactive-impulsive |
|---|---|---|
| Core symptoms | Distractibility, forgetfulness, task-switching difficulty | Restlessness, interrupting, difficulty waiting |
| Visibility | Often quiet and unnoticed | Typically disruptive and noticed early |
| Gender pattern | More common presentation in females | More common presentation in males |
| Typical age of diagnosis | Often late — teens or adulthood | Often early — childhood |
| Main cognitive deficit | Working memory and sustained attention | Impulse control |
| CPT profile | High omission errors (missed targets) | High commission errors (false alarms) |
The Attention & Focus test tracks both omission and commission error patterns. Take it multiple times to see your error profile — consistent high omission errors point toward inattentive patterns; consistent commission errors toward impulsive patterns.
Test your sustained attention
Based on the clinical CPT — free, no account needed.
Quick Answer
ADHD-inattentive (formerly ADD) presents primarily as difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, and disorganisation without hyperactivity. ADHD-hyperactive/impulsive presents as restlessness, interrupting, and difficulty waiting. Combined type (both) is most common. Inattentive type is more often missed in women and girls.
Related Test
More Questions
Go deeper
The Science Page
Peer-reviewed research and full methodology.