Readability Score

A readability score measures how easy your text is to understand. Our algorithm rates text on a 100-point scale—the higher the score, the easier to read. The grade level indicates the education level needed to understand the text.

The scoring considers sentence length, word complexity, and syllable patterns to determine how accessible your content is. This helps you write for your target audience effectively.

For most web content, aim for a score between 60-70 (standard/plain English). Blog posts and marketing content should target 70-80 (fairly easy). Technical documentation can be lower, around 30-50, depending on the audience.

The ideal score depends on your target audience. Consumer-facing content benefits from higher scores, while academic or professional content may require more complex language. Most successful websites aim for an 8th-grade reading level or below.

Readable content keeps users engaged longer, reducing bounce rates—a key factor Google considers for rankings. When visitors understand your content easily, they're more likely to share it, link to it, and return to your site.

Google's algorithms increasingly favor user experience. Content that's too complex frustrates readers and leads to poor engagement metrics. Clear, accessible writing helps your content rank better and convert more visitors.

Start by shortening sentences and paragraphs. Replace complex words with simpler alternatives. Use bullet points and headers to break up text. Read your content aloud—if you stumble, your readers will too.

Tools like this readability analyzer help identify problem areas. Focus on one improvement at a time: first simplify vocabulary, then shorten sentences, then restructure paragraphs. Small changes compound into significantly more readable content.