SMOG (Simple Measure of Gobbledygook) is a recommended and tested method for grading readability of written materials.

The benefits of this method are that it is easy to use, quick, and useful for shorter materials such as an information pamphlet or consent form.

Instructions for long passages:

1. Count out ten sentences in the beginning middle and end of passage greater than 30 sentences.

2. Count words with three or more syllables (polysyllabic).

3. Determine nearest perfect square.

4. Take square root and add three.

Instructions for shorter passages:

1. Count total number of sentences.

2. Obtain conversion number from CDC table.

3. Count polysyllabic words.

4. Multiply word count by conversion number from table mentioned above.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2003). SMOG Readability Formula. Retrieved on February 14, 2006, from, http://www.cdc.gov/od/ads/smog.htm