Focusing

Focusing is the act of adjusting the clear rendering of a subject by aligning optical systems or by directing mental resources toward a target. The term is used across contexts such as optics, vision science, psychology, and everyday language.

In optics and photography, focusing is the process of moving or adjusting lenses so that light rays converge on the imaging plane, producing a sharp image. Autofocus systems or manual focus allow the photographer to control sharpness; depth of field is the range of distances within which objects appear acceptably sharp.

In vision science, the eye's focusing is called accommodation, involving the lens changing shape to keep objects at various distances in focus; age-related changes can reduce focusing ability. Faulty focusing can produce blur or conditions such as myopia or hyperopia.

In cognitive psychology, focusing refers to the selective allocation of attention. It involves sustaining attention, filtering distractions, and sometimes switching focus between tasks. Focusing is influenced by goals, motivation, and environmental cues; multitasking can impair effective focusing.

In practice, focusing is discussed in contexts such as learning, performance, and mindfulness. Techniques to improve focusing include clarifying goals, structuring environments, prioritizing tasks, and practicing attention regulation.