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Readability Testing*
Readability formulas often are used to
assess the reading level of materials. Fry,
Flesch, FOG, and SMOG are among the
most commonly used. Applying these
formulas is a simple process that can be
done manually or by using a computer
software program. Each method takes only
a few minutes.
Typically, readability formulas measure the
difficulty of the vocabulary used and the
average sentence length. In addition,
computer software programs analyze a
document’s grammar, style, word usage,
and punctuation, and assign a reading level.
These formulas, however, do not measure
the reader’s level of comprehension.
Readability software programs are available
at computer stores. Some software
programs, such as Microsoft Word, include
a readability-testing function. (Note: Mention
of software products does not constitute
an endorsement by the National
Cancer Institute.)
Researchers James Pichert and Peggy
Elam suggest three principles for using
readability formulas effectively:
1. Use readability formulas only in concert
with other means of assessing the
effectiveness of the material.
2. Use a formula only when the text’s
intended readers are similar to those on
whom the formula was validated.
3. Do not write a text with readability
formulas in mind.
* Adapted from Clear and Simple: Developing Effective
Print Materials for Low-Literate Readers (NIH Publication
No. 95-3594), by the National Cancer Institute, 1994.
Bethesda, MD. In the public domain.
Before you choose a readability testing
method, decide on an appropriate reading
level for the materials you’ve written. Then
use readability testing to determine whether
your text corresponds to the reading
level you want.
The term reading level refers to the number
of years of education required for
a reader to understand a written passage.
Some experts suggest aiming for a level
that is two to five grades lower than the
highest average grade level of your intended
audience to account for a probable decline
in reading skills over time. Others note that a
third- to fifth-grade level is frequently
appropriate for low-literacy readers. Keep
publications as simple as possible to
increase reader comprehension
of the material.
Readability Testing Methods
You can test readability easily using a
formula such as Fry, Flesch, FOG, or
SMOG. These tests can be done quickly to
indicate any problems with the drafted text.
They do not involve the intended audience.
SMOG
To calculate the SMOG reading grade level
of a written sample, begin with the entire
written work that is being assessed, and
follow these four steps:
1. Count off 10 consecutive sentences each
near the beginning, in the middle, and
near the end of the text.
2. From this sample of 30 sentences, circle
all of the words containing three or more
syllables (polysyllabic), including
repetitions of the same word, and total
the number of words circled.
3. Estimate the square root of the total
number of polysyllabic words counted.
162 Communication Research Methods