Normally, the rays of light entering the eye are brought to a precise focus on the retina – the light sensitive layer lining the back of the eye. When such a focus is not achieved, a refractive error results and vision is not clear. These imperfections in the focusing power of the eye are called refractive errors. The common refractive errors are 1. Myopia or Near sightedness 2. Hyperopia or Far sightedness 3. Astigmatism Myopia (Near Sightedness): A Myopic eye is longer than normal or has a cornea that is too steep, as a result of which the light rays focus in front of the retina. Close objects look clear, but distant objects appear blurred. Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Hyperopia is a term used to describe the condition of farsightedness. The causes of hyperopia are typically genetic and involve an eye that is too short or a cornea that is too flat, as a result of which images focus at a point behind the Retina. People with hyperopia can usually see distant objects well, but have trouble focussing on nearby objects Astigmatism ( Distorted Vision): ASTIGMATISM (cylindrical error) occurs when the incoming light rays are unable to reach a common focus within the eye. Astigmatism distorts or blurs vision for both near and far objects. The cornea is the clear front window of the eye. A normal cornea is round and smooth, like a basketball. When you have astigmatism, the cornea curves more in one direction than in the other, like a football. It is possible to have astigmatism in combination with myopia or hyperopia.