Myopia-Friendly Study Habits During Finals

Myopia-Friendly Study Habits During Finals

Finals season—the time of year when caffeine flows freely, textbooks multiply like rabbits, and laptops glow deep into the night. But amidst the all-nighters and note-cramming, one crucial study partner often suffers: your eyes.

At University Optometric Center, we believe that academic success shouldn’t come at the cost of your visual comfort. If you’re nearsighted (or working hard to prevent myopia from progressing), these eye-friendly study strategies will help you protect your vision while you conquer those exams.

 

1. The 20-20-20 Rule (Your Retina’s Best Friend)

For every 20 minutes of intense studying, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
This simple rule helps:
 

• Relax the focusing muscles in your eyes

• Reduce eye strain and dryness

• Keep your accommodation system from overworking itself

Set a timer or download a reminder app—your eyes will thank you later.

 

2. Optimize Your Study Setup

A well-lit study environment can make a world of difference.
 

• Lighting: Avoid harsh glare or dim settings; aim for soft, even light.

• Screen distance: Keep digital devices about 20–24 inches away from your eyes.

• Font size: Bigger is better—don’t squint your way through lecture slides.
   

If you’re using multiple screens, align them at eye level to avoid unnecessary strain.

 

3. Blink—Seriously, Blink!

When we focus on screens or notes, blink rates can drop by half. The result? Dry, irritated eyes.
Try the conscious blink technique: fully close your eyes for two seconds, then squeeze for two more. It resets your tear film and instantly refreshes your vision.

 

4. Outdoor Breaks: The Natural Myopia Defense

Numerous studies suggest that spending time outdoors can help slow myopia progression.
Even 30 minutes of sunlight exposure daily—whether it’s walking, stretching, or sipping coffee under a tree—can benefit your visual health (and your sanity).

5. Sleep: The Forgotten Study Tool

Your eyes regenerate while you rest. Skipping sleep doesn’t just fog your memory—it can also worsen eye fatigue and make focusing harder the next day. So close those books, dim the lights, and let your eyes recharge.

In Short

Success during finals isn’t just about how long you study—it’s about how smartly you do it.
Give your eyes the care they deserve, and they’ll keep you seeing clearly through every exam, project, and victory lap.

Contact our office in Irvine or Newport Beach at (949)-854-7122 or (949) 476-2870 to book an appointment.