How to use Hart Chart to Train Saccadic Eye Movement

Hart chart is a simple grid with 10 rows and 10 columns of random capital letters. It is commonly used to train and assess eye movement skills.

You can download the pdf of the chart here. Or you can choose to make it your own way (e.g. numbers if user haven’t learnt their letters yet).

Sit comfortably in a chair and make sure you are able to see the HART chart clearly. The chart should be at eye level and about 40-45cm away from your face.

Step 1:

Focus on the centre of the chart with both eyes.

Without moving your head, move your eyes to the first letter on the first line chart, then quickly move your eyes to the last letter on the first line of the chart.

Continue moving your eyes from letter to letter, row by row, until you reach the end of the chart.

Try to see each letter clearly and focus on it for a split second before moving your eyes to the next letter.

Step 2

Start by looking at the first letter of the top line, move from the first letter on the top line to the last letter on the top line, then move to the second letter on the top line and the second-to-last letter on the top line, and so on until you reach the middle. Then repeat this pattern for every other line.

If you find it difficult to move your eyes smoothly and accurately, you can try using a pencil or your finger to guide your eyes from letter to letter.

Repeat the exercise for a few minutes every day.

Tips:

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure you are wearing them during the exercise.

If you feel any discomfort or strain in your eyes, stop the exercise and take a break.

As you get better at the exercise, try to increase the speed and accuracy of your eye movements.