Eye dominance, also known as ocular dominance, refers to the natural tendency for one eye to be preferred for processing visual input, much like how most individuals have a dominant hand. It signifies which eye the brain primarily relies on for visual information, influencing how we perceive and interact with the world around us.
Understanding Eye Dominance
Eye dominance means one eye provides slightly more input to the brain’s visual cortex, accurately relaying object location. This brain preference differs from visual acuity, which measures how clearly an eye sees. An eye can be dominant even if its vision is not 20/20.
The concept is often categorized into “sighting dominance” and “sensory dominance.” Sighting dominance refers to the eye preferred when fixating on a target. Sensory dominance describes which eye’s input the brain prioritizes when both eyes receive conflicting information. Approximately 70% of the population is right-eye dominant, while about 29% are left-eye dominant.
Simple Tests to Determine Your Dominant Eye
Several straightforward tests can help you identify your dominant eye at home without special equipment. One common method is the “triangle” or “hole-in-the-hand” test. To perform this, extend both arms straight out in front of you and create a small triangular opening by overlapping your thumbs and forefingers. With both eyes open, center this triangular opening on a distant object, such as a clock on a wall.
Next, close one eye at a time. If the object remains centered within the triangle when your left eye is closed, your right eye is likely dominant. Conversely, if the object stays centered when your right eye is closed, your left eye is probably dominant.
Another easy test is the “thumb pointing” method. Extend one arm and hold your thumb in an upright position. With both eyes open, focus on a distant object and superimpose your thumb directly over it. Then, alternately close one eye at a time. The eye that keeps your thumb directly in front of the object when the other eye is closed is your dominant eye.
Why Eye Dominance Matters
Understanding your dominant eye has practical implications across various activities, from sports to vision correction. In sports like shooting, archery, and golf, knowing which eye is dominant can impact accuracy and performance. For instance, in target shooting, using your dominant eye for aiming helps ensure precise alignment with the target. If you are cross-dominant, meaning your dominant hand is opposite your dominant eye, adjustments in technique can improve accuracy.
For photographers, using the dominant eye with the camera’s viewfinder can prevent misaligned images, ensuring that what you see through the lens is accurately captured. In vision correction, particularly with monovision contact lenses or LASIK, eye doctors often correct the dominant eye for distance vision and the non-dominant eye for near vision. This tailored approach optimizes visual function based on the brain’s natural preference.