You computer at work sits 20 inches away; which portion of a progressive lens would you use to see it clearly?

You computer at work sits 20 inches away; which portion of a progressive lens would you use to see it clearly?

• A. Distance
• B. Near
• C. Intermediate
• D. Reading

Answer: (C)

Progressive lenses blend several viewing powers into one lens, with different zones for different distances. A computer screen at about 20 inches (roughly 50 cm) is a mid-range distance, not far away and not up close. The intermediate portion of a progressive lens is designed exactly for this range, giving a clear, comfortable view without needing to tilt your head awkwardly or squint. If you tried to use the distance portion, the screen would appear blurry because that section is optimized for objects farther away. If you used the near/reading portion, the screen would be too far for the lens to focus properly, also causing blur and strain. The reading zone is intended for very close tasks like reading a page, not a computer screen at standard desk distance.

Progressive lenses blend several viewing powers into one lens, with different zones for different distances. A computer screen at about 20 inches (roughly 50 cm) is a mid-range distance, not far away and not up close. The intermediate portion of a progressive lens is designed exactly for this range, giving a clear, comfortable view without needing to tilt your head awkwardly or squint.

If you tried to use the distance portion, the screen would appear blurry because that section is optimized for objects farther away. If you used the near/reading portion, the screen would be too far for the lens to focus properly, also causing blur and strain. The reading zone is intended for very close tasks like reading a page, not a computer screen at standard desk distance.