How to Use the Focus Ruler on Websites

The Focus Ruler combines the best of both worlds—it highlights the line you're reading while dimming everything else on the page, helping you stay focused without distractions.


Step 1: Open Helperbird

Click the Helperbird owl icon in your browser toolbar to open the main dashboard.


Step 2: Go to Dyslexia Tools

In the list of tools, find Dyslexia Tools and click the open icon next to it. Then toggle Focus ruler on.


Step 3: Customize Focus Ruler

In the Dyslexia Tools panel, click the Settings tab to customize your focus ruler:

  • Height: Adjust how tall the highlighted area appears
  • Width: Control how wide the focus area extends
  • Color: Choose the color for the dimmed overlay around your focus area
  • Brightness: Make the overlay more or less transparent
  • Follow Cursor: Toggle on to make the focus area follow your mouse, or off to keep it fixed
  • Position: Set where the focus area appears when Follow Cursor is off

Tip: Try enabling Follow Cursor mode with a darker overlay color and medium brightness to create a reading spotlight effect that moves with you.


Video Tutorial


Need Additional Help?

If you run into issues or want to learn more about Helperbird's reading tools, visit our Help Center or reach out to our support team. We're always happy to help make reading easier.

"After using Helperbird I can't say enough positive things about it. This extension has truly transformed my online reading experience. Whether it's adjusting font sizes, reducing eye strain with the gray filter, or using the dyslexia-friendly fonts, Helperbird offers a range of features that cater to individual preferences and needs. The customizable color options and text alignment have also been incredibly helpful for personalizing my browsing. And the speed reading feature? It's a game-changer! Overall, Helperbird is a versatile, user-friendly tool that enhances accessibility and makes online reading a breeze. Highly recommended!"

Charlie Nishelle Calkins
Helperbird Pro user
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