Recent Blog Articles

Lead poisoning: What parents should know and do

How does waiting on prostate cancer treatment affect survival?

Does running cause arthritis?

Is alcohol and weight loss surgery a risky combination?

Preventing ovarian cancer: Should women consider removing fallopian tubes?

Healthier planet, healthier people

Is snuff really safer than smoking?

Will miscarriage care remain available?

Considering collagen drinks and supplements?

Does less TV time lower your risk for dementia?
Snellen Test for Visual Acuity
What is the test?
A Snellen test uses a chart with different sizes of letters or forms to evaluate your visual acuity-that is, the sharpness of your vision. The test shows how accurately you can see from a distance.
How do I prepare for the test?
No preparation is necessary.
What happens when the test is performed?
You stand or sit at a specific distance from the eye chart. Usually you are told to cover one eye with a cardboard piece or with your hand while you read letters with the other eye and say them out loud for the doctor.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!