Readabilty tools measure the complexity of written text by analyzing measures such as word length, syllable count, sentence length, word difficulty and active/passive voice. These tools give a general idea of how much education an individual must have to understand the text. These various tools perform differently and give emphasis to different linguistic elements. Microsoft Word includes the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level and the Flesch Reading Ease tools. To activate these tools, open a word document then see File > Options > Proofing. Make sure "Show readability statistics" is checked.
Plain language is writing and speaking in a way others can can understand the first time they read or hear your message. Plain language is telling your story in a logical order, using active voice, short sentences, using common vocabulary (no jargon), and designing the message in a way that makes it easy to read. It is making a message clear and understandable, the first time it is read or heard.
