How to Measure Eye Dominance

Eye dominance refers to the preference of visual input from one eye over the other, especially in tasks requiring precise alignment. Knowing which eye is dominant is useful for shooting sports, archery, golf, and other activities where alignment and accuracy matter.

There are several established approaches to measuring eye dominance, each with their own advantages:

Traditional Eye Dominance Tests

1. The Miles Test (Triangle Test)

• Method: Extend both arms forward and create a small triangular opening between the hands. With both eyes open, focus on a distant object through the opening.
• Result: When each eye is closed in turn, the dominant eye is the one that keeps the object centered within the triangle.
• Advantages: Simple, no tools required, reliable for most people.
• Limitations: Can sometimes be affected by hand preference or lack of focus.

2. The Porta Test (Pointing Test)

• Method: Extend one arm and point at a distant object with the index finger, keeping both eyes open. Close one eye, then the other.
• Result: The dominant eye is the one where the finger appears to stay aligned with the object. With the non-dominant eye, the finger seems to "jump" off target.
• Advantages: Quick, intuitive, commonly taught in sports and vision training.
• Limitations: Slightly less precise for people with weak or mixed dominance.

3. The Hole-in-the-Card Test (Card Test)

• Method: Hold a card or piece of paper with a small hole at arm's length. Focus on a distant object through the hole with both eyes open. Then alternately close each eye.
• Result: The eye that continues to see the object through the hole is the dominant eye.
• Advantages: Easy to administer, frequently used in optometry clinics.
• Limitations: Requires a card/prop; less convenient in the field.

Our Modern Digital Approach

While traditional tests are fast and simple, digital tools now make the process even easier and more accurate. The EyeDominanceApp guides users step by step through validated tests using their phone's camera. It records results, provides visual confirmation, and helps track subtle dominance shifts over time.

This makes it simpler than ever for athletes, coaches, and clinicians to measure eye dominance reliably without special equipment.

Getting Started with the EyeDominanceApp

Our app uses a scientifically validated pointing method similar to the Porta Test, but with enhanced precision through digital measurement and analysis. Here's how to use it:

What You'll Need

• Two people: One to be tested, one to operate the phone
• Good lighting: Bright, even lighting works best
• Clear space: About 3-6 feet between the tester and camera operator
• Steady hands: The camera operator should hold the phone still

Step-by-Step Instructions

Understanding Your Results

What the Numbers Mean

Strong Dominance (0.5 to 1.0)

• Clear, consistent eye preference
• Optimal for activities requiring precision aiming
• Less likely to change with fatigue or stress
• Most people fall into this category

Mixed/Central Dominance (-0.25 to +0.25)

• No strong eye preference
• Rare condition affecting 5-10% of population
• May experience advantages in some sports
• Could benefit from vision training

Tips for Best Results

Photography Best Practices

• Lighting: Use bright, even lighting - avoid shadows on the face
• Distance: 3-6 feet is optimal - too close distorts proportions
• Stability: Hold phone steady - use both hands if needed
• Timing: Take photo when pointer is steady, not moving

Pointing Technique

• Natural stance: Stand comfortably, don't strain
• Straight arm: Extend arm naturally, don't over-reach
• Steady finger: Point directly at camera lens, keep finger still
• Eye focus: Look directly at the camera lens. Not your finger. Not the operator. Look continuously at the camera lens.

Viewing Your History

The app automatically saves your test results and provides:

• Complete history: All previous test results with dates
• Trend analysis: Visual timeline of your dominance measurements
• Statistical insights: Average dominance and consistency metrics
• PDF reports: Reports you can share or print

Troubleshooting

Inconsistent Results?

• Verify marking accuracy by zooming in on each point
• Ensure same distance for both photos
• Check that pointer is aiming directly at camera lens
• Consider retesting in better lighting conditions

Blurry Photos?

• Improve lighting conditions
• Hold phone steady during capture
• Clean camera lens if needed
• Maintain proper distance (3-6 feet)

Ready to Start?