What Is Fry Readability Graph?
The Fry readability formula, or Fry readability graph, is a metric developed by Edward Fry to assess the readability of a text. Like multiple readability formulas, it determines how easy or difficult a passage is to read and comprehend.
This method uses a graph called the Fry graph to plot two key measures: the average number of sentences and the average number of syllables per 100 words in a text. The point where these two measures intersect on the graph indicates the approximate grade level of the material.
How to Use the Fry Readability Formula
To apply the Fry formula, follow these steps:
- Select three 100-word passages from the beginning, middle, and end of the text.
- Count the number of sentences in each passage (estimating to the nearest tenth for partial sentences).
- Count the total number of syllables in each passage.
- Calculate the average number of sentences and syllables per 100 words across the three samples.
- Plot these averages on the Fry readability graph.
What Is a Fry Graph Readability Calculator?
A Fry graph readability calculator is a tool that automates the process of calculating and plotting the Fry readability score. It typically provides the grade level of the text based on the average sentence length and syllable count. Then, it creates the graph for you, which you can download.
What Is a Good Fry Readability Score?
A "good" Fry Readability score depends on your target audience:
- For general public content, you can aim for grades 6-8.
- For academic or professional texts, higher grade levels may be appropriate.
- For children's literature, target a lower reading level suitable for the intended age group.