COA study plan

Define and distinguish the key optical terms (refractive index, vergence, focal length, diopter) in your own words

Calculate image distance and magnification for simple thin-lens problems without notes

Diagram how light refracts at each ocular surface (cornea, aqueous, lens, vitreous) and label the principal planes

Build a one-page formula sheet covering vergence, lens power, and Snell's law, then solve 20 practice problems using only that sheet

Explain spherical vs cylindrical correction and transposition rules, then transpose 15 prescriptions correctly

Describe the optics of myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia in terms of where the image focuses

Compute spherical equivalent and explain when it is clinically useful

Summarize the purpose and optical principle of common instruments (retinoscope, ophthalmoscope, keratometer, slit-lamp optics) in a comparison table

Label a blank diagram of the eye's structures (cornea, sclera, uvea, retina, optic nerve, adnexa) from memory

Describe the layers and functions of the cornea and the production/drainage pathway of aqueous humor

Explain the roles of rods and cones, phototransduction basics, and the visual pathway from retina to occipital cortex

Sequence the physiology of accommodation and pupil response and connect each to the relevant muscle and nerve

Explain tear film layers and eyelid/adnexal function and why they matter in patient comfort and testing

Demonstrate (on a practice partner or simulator) recording distance and near visual acuity with Snellen and near cards, including pinhole

Describe how to test and record color vision, contrast sensitivity, and Amsler grid results

Outline the components of a structured ocular and medical history and practice taking one on a volunteer

Perform and interpret confrontation visual fields and explain when each field method is appropriate

Set up and describe proper use of the slit lamp, trial frame, and tonometer (including calibration and disinfection steps)

Explain patient positioning, instruction, and documentation for at least four common exam procedures

Convert between Snellen, logMAR, and decimal acuity notations for 10 sample values

Classify common ophthalmic medications (mydriatics, cycloplegics, anesthetics, anti-infectives, glaucoma agents, lubricants) by mechanism and use

Match at least 20 generic drug names to their class, common side effect, and key patient-instruction warning

Sequence the correct steps of instilling drops and ointment, including punctal occlusion and hand hygiene

Explain systemic absorption risks and contraindications (e.g., phenylephrine in hypertension) and how to counsel patients

List and apply standard precautions, hand hygiene, and instrument disinfection/sterilization methods appropriate to each device type

Describe safe handling of ophthalmic solutions, sharps, and biohazard waste and the response to a splash exposure

Explain front-office duties: scheduling, recall, insurance verification basics, and accurate medical record documentation

Identify common patient-safety risks in the exam room and propose a mitigation for each

Take two full-length timed practice exams and log every missed item by domain

Re-study the two weakest domains using targeted worksheets and flashcards until error rate drops below 10%

Recite from memory the key formulas, drug classes, and procedure sequences in a 10-minute self-quiz

Build a final one-page high-yield review sheet spanning all six domains