How to Improve Your Readability Score
Updated February 2026 · 10 min read
Quick Answer
Improve your readability score by using shorter sentences, simpler words, active voice, and clear paragraph breaks. Aim for a Flesch-Kincaid score of 60-70.
Understanding Flesch-Kincaid Scores
The Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease formula scores content on a scale of 0 to 100. Higher scores mean easier to read content.
10 Proven Ways to Improve Your Readability Score
Use Shorter Sentences
The single biggest factor in readability is sentence length. Aim for an average of 15-20 words per sentence. Vary your sentence length — mix short punchy sentences with slightly longer ones — but keep the average under 20 words.
Tip: If a sentence has more than 25 words, split it into two sentences.
Choose Simpler Words
Replace complex words with simpler alternatives. Say 'use' instead of 'utilize'. Say 'help' instead of 'facilitate'. Say 'show' instead of 'demonstrate'. Your readers will understand you better and your score will improve.
Tip: If you can replace a long word with a shorter one without losing meaning, always do it.
Write in Active Voice
Active voice is easier to read than passive voice. Active: 'Google ranks your content.' Passive: 'Your content is ranked by Google.' Active voice is more direct, engaging and easier to understand.
Tip: Look for sentences containing 'is', 'was', 'were', 'been' — these often indicate passive voice.
Break Up Long Paragraphs
Keep paragraphs to 3-4 sentences maximum for web content. Large blocks of text are visually intimidating and cause readers to skim or leave. Short paragraphs with white space between them are much easier to read.
Tip: Every paragraph should cover exactly one idea.
Use Bullet Points and Lists
Lists are much easier to read than sentences packed with multiple items. Instead of writing 'You need to improve sentence length, word choice, paragraph structure, and formatting' — use a bulleted list.
Tip: Any time you list 3 or more items, use a bullet point list.
Add Clear Headings
Headings break your content into scannable sections. Most readers scan content before deciding whether to read it. Clear descriptive headings help readers find what they need quickly and keep them on your page longer.
Tip: Use H2 for main sections and H3 for subsections. Make headings descriptive not clever.
Avoid Jargon and Technical Terms
Unless your audience is experts in your field, avoid technical jargon. When you must use a technical term, explain it in simple language immediately after.
Tip: Write as if you are explaining the topic to a smart friend who is not an expert.
Use Transition Words
Transition words like 'however', 'therefore', 'in addition', 'for example' help readers follow your logic and make your content flow more smoothly.
Tip: Aim for transition words in at least 30% of your sentences.
Read Your Content Aloud
Reading your content aloud is one of the best editing techniques. If you stumble over a sentence when reading it aloud, your readers will too. Rewrite any sentence that feels awkward to speak.
Tip: Record yourself reading and listen back. Problem sentences become very obvious.
Use Contractions
Contractions make your writing feel more natural and conversational. Write 'it's' instead of 'it is'. Write 'you'll' instead of 'you will'. This reduces word complexity and improves your readability score.
Tip: Avoid contractions only in very formal writing like legal or academic documents.
Check Your Readability Score for Free
Use our free readability checker to instantly analyze your content and get your Flesch-Kincaid score along with specific recommendations to improve it.
Check Readability Score Free →Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good Flesch-Kincaid readability score?
For most web content and blog posts, aim for a Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease score of 60-70. This is readable by 7th to 8th graders and the widest possible audience.
How do I check my readability score?
Use a free online readability checker tool. Paste your text and instantly get your Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease score along with grade level and suggestions for improvement.
Does readability affect SEO?
Yes. Google uses engagement signals like time on page and bounce rate to assess content quality. Easier to read content keeps readers on page longer which improves your SEO performance.
What makes content hard to read?
Long sentences, complex words, large blocks of text, passive voice, technical jargon and poor formatting all make content harder to read and lower your readability score.
What reading level should I write for?
For general web content write at a 6th to 8th grade reading level. This does not mean dumbing down your content — it means expressing ideas clearly and simply.