There are a few different vision tests you may have to take during an annual eye exam. Learning more about them ahead of time will give you a better understanding of how your vision is evaluated. This guide will get you started by explaining a few of these tests.

What Are Some Common Vision Tests?

1. Visual Acuity Test

This is the vision test people commonly think of when they prepare for their eye exam. It involves the use of an eye chart that is usually posted on a wall. You’ll be asked to recite the lowest lines of letters that you can clearly see.

Today, some optometrists make use of digital technology and ask you to view an electronic chart via a machine. Both methods are designed to evaluate how clearly you see distant shapes.

2. Color Blindness Test

Many people suffer from color blindness, and the condition can have varying degrees of severity. An eye doctor will use a few different tests to evaluate the ability to see colors.

One common test involves looking at a pattern of one color.  There’s a letter within the pattern, but colored differently. If you’re unable to discern the letter, you’ll be diagnosed with this condition. The doctor will then conduct other tests to determine if the condition is genetic, or if it’s the symptom of other vision problems.

3. Retinoscopy Test

You’re probably familiar with the phoropter, even if you don’t know it by name. This is the larger machine with multiple dials and lenses that the optometrist uses to determine the prescription strength for your eyeglasses.

The eye doctor will flip through various lenses and ask how well you see with each one. Additionally, the machine determines what types of vision problems you have, such as nearsightedness or astigmatism. 

4. Peripheral Vision Field Test

A simple peripheral vision field test can be done at home by having a friend draw a finger towards the side of your face. When you can see the finger coming towards you, this indicates the strength of your peripheral vision.

An optometrist will use a machine for this purpose by asking you to press a button as soon as you see a blinking light, or other objects. Your head will be immobile so that the optometrist can obtain more accurate test results.

Doctors use a variety of vision tests to achieve a comprehensive understanding of your eye health. Clear Vision Center in Brooklyn, NY, has been providing full eye care services to the community for more than 11 years. They keep an optometrist and an optician on staff to ensure all of your needs are met, from undergoing the exam to getting your new eyewear. They offer designer glasses from Zegna® and new frames from Fred®. To learn more about their services, visit their website, or schedule an appointment by calling (718) 771-0078.