In 1994, the fourth edition of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual again revised the criteria for diagnosing ADHD. The disorder is currently divided into three sub-types: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined-type ADHD.

Symptoms of the inattentive type include:

• Difficulty with focusing
• Difficulty concentrating
• Listening problems
• Difficulty following directions
• Making careless mistakes
• Being easily distracted

Symptoms of the hyperactive type of ADHD include:

• Constant fidgeting or squirming
• Talking excessively and interrupting others
• Difficulty waiting one's turn
• Getting up out of one's desk during class

While most children display some or all of these symptoms at one time or another, diagnosis of inattentive or hyperactive type ADHD should only be made if a child's behavior meets the following criteria:

• The child displays six or more of the symptoms particular to each category
• The child displays these symptoms in multiple settings (such as home and school) with detrimental effects to school performance or relationships with parents or peers
• The child has demonstrated these symptoms before the age of seven

Also, the symptoms should not be due to another illness or disorder such as a learning disability or childhood depression. If a child demonstrates six or more symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive type ADHD and satisfies the other criteria, they are diagnosed with combined-type ADHD.

(http://www.helpguide.org/mental/adhd_add_diagnosis.htm)

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