Visual acuity: A visual acuity test shows how well

A visual acuity test shows how well you can see a word or symbol from a certain distance. Learn what to expect and what the results mean. A visual acuity test is a type of eye examination that measures your ability to see details at a specific distance. Optometrists use visual acuity tests to help determine the level of vision correction required for your eyeglasses or contact lens prescription. 20/20 vision is a term used to express normal visual acuity; the clarity or sharpness of vision measured at a distance of 20 feet. Visual acuity (VA) commonly refers to the clarity of vision, but technically rates an animal's ability to recognize small details with precision. Visual acuity depends on optical and neural factors. Optical factors of the eye influence the sharpness of an image on its retina.