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Readability Score Checker

Score text with Flesch Reading Ease, Flesch–Kincaid, Gunning Fog, SMOG, Coleman–Liau and ARI, and find long sentences.

What is a readability score?

A readability score estimates how easy a text is to understand from sentence length and word complexity. The Flesch Reading Ease score runs from 0 to 100 — higher is easier — and grade-level formulas give the years of schooling needed.

The formulas

FormulaBased onTarget for the web
Flesch Reading EaseWords per sentence, syllables per word60–70 or higher
Flesch–Kincaid GradeSame inputs, as a US gradeGrade 7–9
Gunning FogSentence length and complex wordsUnder 12
SMOGWords of 3+ syllablesUnder 10
Coleman–Liau, ARICharacters per wordGrade 7–9

How to improve your score

  • Split sentences over 25 words — the checker lists them.
  • Prefer short, common words ("use" instead of "utilise").
  • Use active voice and one idea per sentence.

Readable content keeps visitors on the page and is easier for AI assistants to quote. Scores are designed for English.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good Flesch score?

60–70 is plain English that most adults read easily. Above 80 is very easy; below 30 is academic.

Why do the grade levels differ?

Each formula weighs sentence length and word complexity differently; the average gives a balanced estimate.

Is readability a ranking factor?

Not directly, but clear writing improves engagement and helps search engines and AI tools understand your content.