Readability (Usability)

How easy text is to read.

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Impact

(ScanGov impact)

About

Readability measures how easy text is to understand by looking at words and layout. Experts like Flesch-Kincaid and Automated Readability Index help test reading level. For example, ARI uses the average number of characters per word and words per sentence to give a U.S. school grade level—e.g., 8 = eighth grade. Simple words, short sentences, clear design, and legible fonts make text easier to read. These tests help match writing to different audiences' skill levels.

Why it's important

Improves communication by helping readers quickly understand messages without confusion or frustration.

User stories

As a user reading content on a web page, I want the text to have high readability through clear content and optimal presentation so that I can understand and process the information with minimal effort and maximum comprehension.

Error

(ScanGov messaging when a site fails a standard)

Automated Readability Index score is above 8 (higher than 7th grade reading level).

Guidance

• 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act (IDEA)
• Automated Readability Index (ARI)
• Flesch-Kincaid (FK)
• U.S. Federal Website Standards
• Memorandum (M-23-22)
• Plain Writing Act of 2010

Links

• Readability (Wikipedia)

Indicators

• Usability