Flesch Reading Ease Score Explained: What It Means & How to Improve
The Flesch Reading Ease score is the most widely used readability metric in the world. It powers readability checks in Microsoft Word, WordPress SEO plugins, and countless writing tools. Here is exactly what it measures and how to use it.
The Formula
The Flesch Reading Ease score is calculated as:
206.835 - (1.015 × average sentence length) - (84.6 × average syllables per word)
In plain terms: shorter sentences and simpler words = higher score = easier to read.
Score Ranges
| Score | Difficulty | Audience |
|---|---|---|
| 90–100 | Very Easy | 5th grade, children's content |
| 80–89 | Easy | 6th grade, conversational |
| 70–79 | Fairly Easy | 7th grade, consumer content |
| 60–69 | Standard | 8th–9th grade, general audience |
| 50–59 | Fairly Difficult | 10th–12th grade, informed readers |
| 30–49 | Difficult | College level, academic |
| 0–29 | Very Difficult | Graduate level, professional |
What Score Should You Aim For?
For most blog content, aim for 60–70 (standard to fairly easy). This range is accessible to the broadest audience while still being informative. Major publications like The New York Times typically score around 50–60. Marketing copy often scores 70–80.
Real-World Examples
- Harry Potter books: ~80 (Easy)
- Popular blog posts: ~65 (Standard)
- Insurance policies: ~30 (Difficult)
- Academic journals: ~15 (Very Difficult)
How to Improve Your Score
Shorten Your Sentences
Long sentences are the biggest score killer. If a sentence exceeds 25 words, split it or trim unnecessary words.
Use Simpler Words
Words with fewer syllables improve your score. "Use" scores better than "utilize." "Help" scores better than "facilitate." This does not mean avoiding all complex words — just preferring the simpler option when both work equally well.
Vary Sentence Length
Mix short punchy sentences with longer explanatory ones. A rhythm of short-long-short keeps readers engaged and improves the overall score. Like this. See how the short sentence adds punch?
Eliminate Redundancy
"Absolutely essential" is redundant (essential already means absolute). "Free gift" is redundant (gifts are free by definition). Cut these to improve both clarity and score.
Check Your Flesch Score
Our free Reading Level Checker calculates your Flesch Reading Ease score along with other readability metrics — all privately in your browser with no data collection.
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