A2Z Tools Plain Language Analyzer

What A2Z Tools Plain Language Analyzer is

A2Z Tools Plain Language Analyzer checks English drafts against plain-language guidance and links findings to guideline sources. It flags complex words, terms on the GOV.UK avoid list, hidden verbs, “shall” in requirements, double negatives, passive voice, and long sentences or words. The tool estimates a Flesch-Kincaid reading grade and compares it with a selected audience target. Its general-public defaults use sentences over 25 words and grade 8; service instructions use 20 words and grade 7; professional readers use 30 words and grade 12. Users can add organization-specific jargon and pair terms with plainer alternatives using an equals sign. Findings can be downloaded as a CSV for an editor. The analyzer processes pasted, typed, or dropped text in the browser tab and says text is not uploaded, logged, stored, or sent to analytics. It checks English only, with word lists drawing on US and UK guidance. Readability scores measure sentence and word length rather than meaning, so findings are prompts for human review. The web tool is free.