Harmon distance

Research on human ergonomics has determined that the optimal visual distance for reading and other close work is the Harmon Distance or “Elbow Distance”.  This distance is measured by placing a closed fist under the chin and resting the elbow on a table. The point at the end of the elbow represents the closest distance a person should be from their near work.

The reader can get an understanding of what some smaller children face in school by holding a sheet of paper at the chin and trying to read from it.