The Flesch-Kincaid calculator is a user-friendly tool available online that is used to assess the readability of a given text.
Instruction: Copy and paste the text into the box below and click “Calculate” to view the readability score of the text.
Have you wondered how easy it is to understand your website? Is your intended audience able to comprehend your writing?
To understand the effectiveness of your writing, you need to ensure that your web pages are readable. Essential metrics like Flesch-Kincaid reading ease and grade level will assist you in understanding whether your writing is reaching your target audience.
What is Flesch Reading Ease Score?
The Flesch Reading Ease Score, introduced in 1948, assesses the readability of a text. This score provides an approximate educational level required for a person to read and comprehend a particular text easily.
The Flesch Reading Ease Score ranges from 0 to 100. If the score is high (around 100), it indicates that the text is very easy to read, while a lower score indicates that the text is very complex and difficult to understand.
The Flesch Reading Ease score is arrived at by using this equation:
Flesch Reading Ease Score = 206.835 – 1.015 × (Total Words / Total Sentences) – 84.6 × (Total Syllables / Total Words)
What is Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level?
The Flesch-Kincaid Grade level shows the education level required for understanding a specific text.
The scores align with the US grade level education that the readers would need to understand the text easily. For example, if the text has a Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level of 9, the reader needs to be around 9th grade to comprehend the text without any difficulty.
The Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level is arrived at by using this equation:
Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level = 0.39 × (Total Words / Total Sentences) + 11.8 × (Total Syllables / Total Words) – 15.59
Tips to Improve Readability
Here are some tips you can implement to improve the readability of your content with Flesch-Kincaid reading ease or other readability formulas:
Use Simple Language: Use easily understandable words without compromising on the quality of your content. Choose words that the majority of readers can understand without the need for a dictionary.
Shorten Sentences: Lengthy sentences can make it difficult for readers to grasp the meaning. Aim to keep sentences under 20 words to improve readability.
Break Up Text: Avoid large blocks of text, as they can be overwhelming. Use headers, bullet points, and paragraphs to create a visually appealing and reader-friendly layout that is easier to read and digest.
Prefer Active Voice: Active voice is more straightforward and easier to understand than passive voice. So, use active voice in your writing whenever possible.
Utilize Transition Words: Incorporate words like “and,” “because,” “so,” and “but” to guide readers through your text, facilitating better flow and comprehension.
Know Your Audience: Always keep your target audience in mind when creating content. If you are writing for a broader audience, make sure the text can be understood by as many people as possible.
Revise and Edit: No piece of writing is perfect in its first draft. Thoroughly revise and edit your work to enhance clarity and readability.