Letter and number reversals worksheets
Printable letter reversal worksheets for first graders: a b d p q chart, b and d words to trace and write, a b or d word sort, p or q pictures, fix the backwards letters, pick the right word and fix the sentence.
The worksheets
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b d p q Chart
b, d, p and q in big handwriting with numbered start dots, a word for each, simple steps to say out loud, and the numbers that often flip.
Write b and d Words
Short words with b and d, like bed, dad, bud and dip, to trace and then write two times. Fewer, Standard or More give 5, 7 or 9 words. Includes an answer key.
b or d Word Sort
A word box of b and d words to sort into two columns. Fewer, Standard or More give 8, 12 or 16 words. Includes an answer key.
p or q?
Pictures like pig, pear, queen and quack with the first letter left out, plus a tip about q and u. Fewer, Standard or More give 6, 8 or 10 pictures. Includes an answer key.
Fix the Backwards Letters
Rows of letters and numbers with one or two flipped in each. Circle them, then write them the right way. Fewer, Standard or More give 6, 8 or 10 rows. Includes an answer key.
Pick the Right Word
Sentences with two word choices, like dog or bog in "The dog can run fast." Circle the one that makes sense and is spelled the right way. Fewer, Standard or More give 6, 8 or 10 sentences. Includes an answer key.
Fix the Sentence
Short sentences, each with one b, d, p or q flipped. Circle the word, then write the sentence the right way. Fewer, Standard or More give 3, 4 or 5 sentences. Includes an answer key.
Print the whole packet
One copy of every sheet above, in order. Tap + for more copies (up to 10).
For the parent or teacher
What it is
These sheets help kids who mix up b, d, p and q or flip letters and numbers when they write. They practice forming each letter the right way, using it in real words and sentences, and spotting and fixing flips. Flipping letters is common while kids are learning to read and write. These sheets are not a test and not a diagnosis.
What comes next
Teach in order or jump to whatever your student needs. The Reading helpers and Handwriting helpers topics have more practice with look-alike letters and letter formation.
How to teach it
- Start every letter at its starting point and say the steps out loud.
- Read the word or sentence out loud. Meaning helps, since "the dog ran" makes sense and "the bog ran" does not.
- Have your child check their own writing against the chart.
- Keep it short and stop while it's still going well.
Common mistakes
- Correcting every flip. Point to the chart instead of saying "no."
- Practicing only single letters. Real words and sentences help the letters stick.
- Waiting a long time to ask for help. If flips stay very frequent along with other reading or writing trouble, talk with your child's teacher or doctor.