Simplify overly complex content
Most web copy should be readable at roughly Grade 8 — clear, short, direct.
What it means
Reading level estimates the education needed to follow your text. 'Advanced' usually means long sentences, dense paragraphs, and jargon — not that your audience is stupid, but that the writing makes them work.
Why it matters
Even expert readers skim web pages. Plain language is read by more people, understood by more people, and converts more people — every serious style guide for the web says the same thing.
How to fix it
- Aim for sentences under ~20 words and one idea per sentence.
- Replace jargon with the word your customer would use.
- Break walls of text into short paragraphs with descriptive subheadings.
- Use bullet lists for options and steps (you're reading one now).
- Run the page through Hemingway and fix the red/yellow highlights.
Helpful tools
- Hemingway Editor
- Our content tab
Not sure if this affects your site? Analyze your website for free or compare it with a competitor.
Related guides
- Replace generic marketing copy: 'World-class solutions' describes nobody — specifics describe you.
- Refresh stale content: Old copyright years and dated posts quietly tell visitors the site is neglected.