Readability scores translate writing complexity into a single number. The trick isn't getting a perfect score — it's matching the score to your audience.
What is a readability score?
A readability score estimates how easy it is to read a piece of writing. The most widely used formula, Flesch reading ease, runs from 0 (very hard) to 100 (very easy) based on average sentence length and average syllables per word.
Other formulas — Flesch-Kincaid grade level, Gunning fog, SMOG — produce a school grade instead of a 0–100 score, but they all reward shorter sentences and shorter words.
What counts as a 'good' score?
For most blog posts and web copy, a Flesch reading ease score of 60–70 (a 7th–9th grade reading level) performs best. It is clear without being childish.
Technical or B2B content often runs lower (50–60) and that's fine — your audience expects denser language. Consumer and lifestyle content should aim higher (70–80).
How to improve your readability score
Shorten long sentences. If a sentence runs longer than 25 words, look for a place to split it.
Prefer common words. Replace 'utilize' with 'use', 'commence' with 'start' and 'subsequently' with 'then'.
Break up dense paragraphs. Online readers scan in three- and four-line blocks.
Switch passive voice to active voice wherever it doesn't change meaning.
Checking readability with Textorum.io
Our free readability checker updates a Flesch reading ease score and grade level in real time as you type or paste text. There's no signup, no upload — your text stays in your browser.
FAQ
Is a higher readability score always better?
No. A 90+ Flesch score can feel patronising for technical or professional audiences. Match the score to your reader.
Does Google rank by readability?
Google doesn't publish a direct readability factor, but clearer content tends to win on engagement metrics like time on page and pogo-sticking.
How do I check readability for free?
Use Textorum.io's free readability checker — paste your text and get an instant Flesch score, grade level and writing analytics.
The Textorum.io Team
Writing & SEO research
We build Textorum.io — a private, browser-based writing analytics tool — and write about clarity, readability and SEO writing.
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