How to Make the Image on a Monitor Sharper
By Katie Strzeszewski
You can make the image on a monitor sharper by adjusting your computer or laptop’s screen resolution. A lower screen resolution, such as 800x600, will produce larger images that appear grainy and blurry, while higher screen resolutions, such as 1680x1050, produce smaller images that are clearer and more defined (see Resources for examples). The steps vary slightly from Windows XP to Windows Vista to Windows 7, but the basic premise is the same.
Step 1
Click on the Start button, then click on Control Panel. Once you are in the Control Panel in Windows XP, click on Display. In the Control Panel in Windows Vista or Windows 7, click on Appearance and Personalization.
Step 2
-In Windows XP, in the Display Properties, select the Settings tab. -In Windows Vista, click on Personalization, then Display Settings. -In Windows 7, click Adjust Screen Resolution
Step 3
Move the slider in the Resolution box (Screen Resolution in Windows XP) to the appropriate resolution, then click Apply. A pop-up box will ask if you want to keep the settings; select yes to make the change permanent.
Tips
- Try viewing your monitor at several different screen resolutions; an extremely sharp resolution will do little good if it is too small for you to read.
Warnings
- Windows usually adjusts itself to give you the best image for the monitor you are using. If you adjust your screen resolution and the adjustment does not remain, or if there are only one or two selections available when adjusting your resolution, you may need to update or reinstall your graphics driver.
Writer Bio
Katie Strzeszewski has been writing professionally since 2003 and holds a Bachelor of Arts in professional writing and English secondary education from York College of Pennsylvania. Strzeszewski spent two years performing computer repair for Geek Squad, currently works for men's clothier Paul Fredrick and is also a competitive West Coast Swing and Hustle dancer.