Readability Very Difficult
- December 7, 2025
Quick Reference
Element Code: ON-035
Issue: Content scores as "very difficult" to read (Flesch score under 30)
Impact: Significant engagement problems, excludes most readers
Fix: Major rewriting needed to simplify content
Detection: Readability scores, Hemingway Editor
What Is This Issue?
Content scoring as "very difficult" requires graduate-level reading comprehension. Unless your audience is exclusively academics or specialists, this level of complexity will alienate most readers and hurt engagement metrics.
Why This Matters
- Average US Reading Level: 7th-8th grade
- Exclusion: Very difficult content excludes the majority of readers
- Engagement: Users leave when they can't understand content
- Accessibility: Complex text creates barriers for many users
How to Fix This Issue
- Break Up Long Sentences: Split sentences over 25 words
- Replace Jargon: Use everyday equivalents where possible
- Add Explanations: Define technical terms when you must use them
- Use Lists: Break complex information into digestible points
- Get Feedback: Have non-experts read and identify confusing parts
TL;DR (The Simple Version)
Your content is way too hard to read. Most people won't be able to understand it. You need to seriously simplify your writing with shorter sentences, simpler words, and clearer structure.
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