Here’s a simple formula for testing literacy
October 1, 2000
Here’s a simple formula for testing literacy
The Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) reading formula is a popular method for evaluating the reading level of materials given to patients. It is based on the notion that complex materials contain many words with three or more syllables. To create simpler, easy-to-read materials, use this formula to evaluate sentences. Following are the assessment steps:
• Count off 10 consecutive sentences near the beginning, in the middle, and near the end of the text. If the text has fewer than 30 sentences use as many as are provided.
• Count the number of words containing three or more syllables.
• Evaluate the grade level by using the SMOG conversion table below:
| Conversion Table | |
| Total Polysyllabic Level Word Count | Approximate Grade Level |
| 0-2 | 4 |
| 3-6 | 5 |
| 7-12 | 6 |
| 3-20 | 7 |
| 21-30 | 8 |
| 31-42 | 9 |
| 43-55 | 10 |
| 57-72 | 11 |
| 73-90 | 12 |
| 91-110 | 13 |
| 11-132 | 14 |
| 133-156 | 15 |
| 157-182 | 16 |
| 183-210 | 17 |
| 211-240 | 18 |