Learning disabilities are problems that affect the brain's ability to process information, making it difficult for students to learn as quickly as others. They are characterized by significant difficulties acquiring skills like listening, speaking, reading, writing, reasoning or math. Learning disabilities are often identified through testing that compares cognitive ability to academic achievement. They can be caused by issues during pregnancy/birth, genetic factors, accidents or other central nervous system dysfunction. Common types include dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalcula and dyspraxia.