Software to help focus

Overview

There a number of free and paid-for programs that are designed to help computer users focus their attention when reading text on screen. They are broadly in three categories: colour tinting, rulers and magnifiers.

EduApps provides this software freely. To help you find the best solution for you we have included our recommendations below.

Colour tinting your screen

• ssOverlay (PC only) – this programme covers the screen with a slightly tinted colour of your choice. It reduces contrast  which some users may prefer when reading text. 
  • Text Guide: ssOverlay (University of Aberdeen)
  • Download: ssOverlay (Fx Software) [.exe]
• Screen Shades (Mac only) – equivalent of ssOverlay for the Mac.
  • Download (bottom of page): Screen Shades (CSoM)
• Universal Access (Mac only) – you can invert the colours for the whole screen (black background, white text) using the in-built settings for Mac.
  • Press [Ctrl] + [Alt] + [⌘] + [8] to turn on or off.
  • Text Guide: Introduction to Universal Access (Tech-Ease)

Rulers

• Vu-Bar  (PC only) – this provides a slot through which text is viewed.
  • Download: Vu-Bar (Fx Software) [.exe]
  • Also available as part of the AccessApps Core Download

   

Magnifiers

• Microsoft Magnifier (PC only) – built-in screen magnification for Windows.
  • Text Guide and Video: Magnifier (Microsoft Help)
• Universal Access (Mac only) – built-in screen magnification for Mac.
  • Press [Alt] + [⌘] + [8] to activate. Then use [Alt] + [⌘] + [+] to zoom in or [Alt] + [⌘] + [-] to zoom out.
  • Text Guide: Introduction to Universal Access (Tech-Ease)