Understanding the viral colour vision test and what it reveals about eye health
This simple optical test for colour perception takes the internet by storm, and the results surprise many users. Find out how the test works and what your results might say about the health of your eyes. Check if you see colours like most people!
18 September 2024 14:13
The debate over the blanket's colour—green or blue—sparked more than just a household discussion. Neurobiologist Dr Patrick Mineault, inspired by differences in colour perception, developed a colour vision test that allows us to see how we perceive colours compared to others. The test quickly gained popularity, and its simplicity and accessibility made it possible for anyone to participate. But what can the results tell us about our vision and health?
Colour vision test
The colour vision test has become an internet phenomenon, allowing users to see how they perceive colours compared to others. Its creation was inspired by the personal difference in colour perception between neurobiologist Dr Patrick Mineault and his wife, an ophthalmologist. The debate over the colour of the blanket—green or blue—motivated Mineault to create a test that allows users to assess whether their colour perception is typical or differs from the norm.
The basic test involves distinguishing between blue and green using simple screen charts. The user has two buttons to choose from: "This is blue" or "This is green." After going through the entire series of charts, the system analyses the responses and presents the result. Interestingly, the boundary between colours can vary between different people, allowing for a better understanding of individual differences in colour perception. The test can be taken on the website My Blue.
Test result and eye health
The test results provide information about how one sees colours and can be a valuable indication of eye health. Outlying results do not necessarily indicate vision problems but reflect individual differences in naming and distinguishing colours. Dr Patrick Mineault emphasises that the test result is not always a clear indicator of eye health but rather a tool for understanding how our brain interprets colours.
However, it is worth noting that abnormal colour discrimination can indicate eye conditions such as colour blindness or other colour vision disorders. If the test results are surprisingly different from the typical ones, it might be a good time to consult an ophthalmologist and undergo more detailed examinations.
