Sneak and spell casting range

[CatPerson]

I feel like casting range is very short. Is it the same with arrows?

I sneak up, I get the red dot in the eye, I cast, it looks like it hits them full on, but they continue to stand there undamaged. Doesn't matter if it's lighting, fire, that "homing" spell, etc. I've tried many times re: aim angle/height but nope. Always have to get a fair bit closer.

am I correct in that the red dot in the sneak-eye (or in general) is supposed to be "in range"? If so, it feels quite off. If I've been mistaken all this time - never mind then. ;p