Executive Functioning and Autism

Understand executive functioning and autism through interactive choices and practical reflection. Consider how planning, organisation, starting tasks and adapting to change can affect everyday life. Create a downloadable support plan with manageable steps, useful adjustments and ways to communicate individual needs.

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Executive functions help us plan, begin, organise and adapt our actions. Some autistic people experience difficulties in these areas. Needs vary between people and situations, and can change with stress, tiredness and sensory demands.

Where could support help?

Choose a situation for an adjustment to consider.

What feels difficult today?

Build a manageable next step

Support can make the route clearer.

Useful words for asking for help

“I understand the goal. Could we write down the steps?”

“I need time to adjust to this change.”

“Can we agree what to prioritise and what can wait?”

Difficulty completing a task does not by itself show a lack of effort or understanding. Ask about the individual’s needs rather than assuming one strategy suits everyone.

My practical support plan

This reflection does not diagnose or score executive functioning. Write only what is useful. Your writing is not saved automatically. Download a copy before closing or refreshing the page.

A task I would like support withThe part that takes the most effortMy smallest first actionSteps or information I need made clearerPractical support or adjustments that may helpA backup plan if something changesHow I will check whether the support helps

Further information

National Autistic Society: organising and prioritising

If daily difficulties persist, consider discussing individual support with a healthcare professional or relevant workplace or education support service.