1. What is the SMOG Readability Index?

The SMOG (Simple Measure of Gobbledygook) index is a readability formula that estimates the years of education needed to understand a piece of writing. It's widely used in healthcare, government, and other fields where clear communication is essential.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the SMOG formula:

Where:

• Polysyllabic words — Words with 3 or more syllables
• 30 sentences — The standard sample size (adjusted if fewer sentences are provided)
• 3 — The base constant that sets the minimum grade level

Explanation: The formula counts complex words and uses a square root transformation to estimate the required reading level.

3. Importance of Readability Scores

Details: Readability scores help ensure written materials match the audience's reading ability. This is crucial for patient education materials, legal documents, and public information.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Paste your text into the box and click "Calculate". For best results, use at least 30 sentences. The calculator will adjust for shorter texts.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's considered a good SMOG score?
A: For general audiences, aim for ≤8 (8th grade level). For specialized audiences, ≤12 may be acceptable.

Q2: How does SMOG compare to other readability tests?
A: SMOG is more accurate than Flesch-Kincaid for higher reading levels and specifically counts complex words.

Q3: Should I count proper nouns as polysyllabic?
A: The original formula excludes proper nouns, but this calculator includes them for simplicity.

Q4: What if my text has fewer than 30 sentences?
A: The calculator automatically adjusts by scaling up your polysyllabic count proportionally.

Q5: How can I improve my SMOG score?
A: Reduce complex words, shorten sentences, and break long paragraphs. Replace polysyllabic words with simpler alternatives.