How to Fill Out Your Prescription
How to Fill Out Your Prescription
Entering your prescription online can feel confusing at first. This guide shows you how to fill out SPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD, and PD correctly when ordering progressive, reading, or prescription lenses.
Enter Your Prescription
SPH is either − or +. Please make sure values are correct.
* Required fields
PD *
PD helps center your lenses correctly for clear vision. Select “2 PD numbers” only if your prescription shows separate OD and OS PD values.
Understanding Your Prescription Form
When entering your prescription online, you may see fields such as SPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD, and PD. These values help us create lenses that match your vision needs.
Not every prescription includes all values. Some fields may stay at 0.00 or remain unselected depending on your prescription type.
If you are not confident entering your values manually, upload a clear photo of your prescription during checkout.
Step 1 — Enter SPH
SPH, or Sphere, is the main lens power used to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Negative numbers correct nearsightedness. Examples: -1.25, -2.00, -4.50.
Positive numbers correct farsightedness or near-vision support. Examples: +1.00, +2.25, +3.00.
If your prescription does not include SPH for one eye, select 0.00.
Step 2 — Enter CYL & AXIS If Needed
CYL, or Cylinder, is used to correct astigmatism. If your prescription includes a CYL value, it should also include an AXIS value.
AXIS works together with CYL and describes the direction of astigmatism correction. AXIS values usually range from 0 to 180.
Astigmatism Power
Only enter CYL if your prescription shows a cylinder value.
Astigmatism Direction
AXIS is required when CYL is included on your prescription.
Step 3 — Enter ADD Power
ADD is additional magnification power used for near vision and reading support. It is commonly required for progressive lenses, multifocal lenses, and reading support.
| Age Range | Typical ADD Range | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 40–45 | +0.75 ~ +1.25 | Early reading support |
| 45–50 | +1.25 ~ +1.75 | Phone, menu, and daily reading |
| 50–55 | +1.75 ~ +2.25 | Regular reading and close-up tasks |
| 55–60 | +2.25 ~ +2.75 | Stronger near-vision support |
| 60+ | +2.75 ~ +3.00 | Small text and detailed reading |
Step 4 — Enter PD
PD, or Pupillary Distance, is the distance between your pupils. It helps center your lenses correctly in front of your eyes.
Some prescriptions show one single PD number, while others show separate right and left PD values.
One Total Number
Example: 63 mm.
Two Separate Numbers
Example: 31 / 32 mm.
Example — Progressive Prescription
Here is a simple example of how values may appear when filling out a progressive prescription.
| Eye | SPH | CYL | AXIS | ADD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OD / Right Eye | -1.25 | -0.50 | 90 | +1.75 |
| OS / Left Eye | -1.00 | -0.25 | 85 | +1.75 |
| PD | 63 mm | |||
What If You Are Not Sure?
If you already have a written prescription, uploading a clear photo may be the easiest option.
Our support team can help you review your prescription before ordering.
If your PD is missing, measure it at home or ask your eye care provider.
If you only need simple everyday reading support, Age Fit Readers may be a convenient option.
FAQ
Can I leave CYL blank?
Yes. If your prescription does not include astigmatism correction, simply leave CYL at 0.00 and AXIS at 0.
Is ADD required?
ADD is usually required for progressive or multifocal lenses, but not for standard single vision lenses.
What if I only need reading glasses?
If you only need simple reading support, our Age Fit Readers may be a convenient option without requiring a full prescription.
What if I do not know my PD?
You can measure your PD at home, upload your prescription, or ask your eye care provider for the measurement.
Can I upload a photo of my prescription instead?
Yes. Uploading a prescription photo is often the easiest option if you are unsure how to enter the values manually.
What if my prescription is expired?
For the best vision experience, we recommend using your most recent valid prescription from an eye care professional.
Clear Vision Starts With the Right Prescription.
Whether you need fully customized prescription lenses or simple everyday reading support, we’re here to help you find the right fit for your lifestyle.
