Readability testing tools
Readability testing can quickly tell you how hard content is to read. But do not rely on automated suggestions.
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Readability tools check the readability of your writing by checking, for example:
- sentences length
- grammar
- use of complex words.
Choose a tool
Each tool operates slightly differently, and the results vary, but they provide similar information.
What the rating means
Tools may give you a Flesch score or a grade. You should aim for a reading age of 12.
Flesch reading-ease test
A score of 65 or above is thought to be plain English. This isn’t set in stone though — sometimes specific terms can drag the reading ease down, so aim for a score of at least 60.
School grade
School grade levels vary around the world.
Use the grade score as a guide and aim for a reading age level of 12.
Note
Readability scores are a useful way to show stakeholders how content can be improved.
Utility links and page information
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