Abstract: A reading aid for electronic text serves to frame specific and generally desired portions of text or other displayed information for easier reading and attention-focusing purposes. In conjunction with video memory or other video signal transmission elements, an overlay generator serves to bias a portion of the video signal for a computer display. The bias is such that the framed portion of the display is made distinct from the framing portion which generally maintains its visibility and/or legibility despite opacity. In this way, the framed portion is not subject to over-isolation. While the user may scroll the opaqued portion into the framed portion of the display, the framing portion is generally visible but held in contrast or distinction to the framed portion. Adjustments may be made to the framed and framing areas, and additional features are provided.