When you’re writing a document, knowing how “readable” it is can be quite useful. There are two common tests that score readability (aka how difficult it is to understand your writing). Microsoft Word can calculate your readability scores right within the program, and it’s super easy to set up.

• Type up your document in Word. Then click on the File menu > Options > Proofing tab.
• Under the “When correcting spelling and grammar in Word” heading, you’ll see a box that says “Show readability statistics.” Check this box, then exit out of your options and go back to your document.
• Now, run a standard spelling and grammar check just like you would any other time. You will then be able to see readability scores based on two tests: The first is the Flesch Reading Ease test, and the second is the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level score.
• The higher the score on the Reading Ease test, the easier the document is thought to be to read. If your document is at least 60, it should be relatively easy to read, although you can aim for higher scores if increased readability is important to you.
• The grade level is equivalent to the reading level of students. An 8, for example, would mean that the material is appropriate for an 8^th grader. If you hit somewhere between 7 and 8, it should be very readable for the majority of people.

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