Readability and Pace
Baseline Targets
- Default target: Flesch Reading Ease above 70
- Allowed exception band: 60-70 for dense technical and strict academic contexts
- Science paper writing: prioritize precision, but still improve clarity where possible
Rule: Write for Fast First-Pass Comprehension
Description: Most readers decide in seconds whether to continue. Negative example: "This text requires substantial interpretive effort before key claims become clear." Positive example: "This section explains the claim in one sentence, then proves it in three bullets."
Rule: Use Short Openers and Clear Closers
Description: Begin and end paragraphs with sentences that anchor meaning. Negative example: Starting with caveats and ending with vague summary language. Positive example: Start with claim, close with implication or next step.
Rule: Increase Rate of Revelation
Description: Each sentence should add new value, not restate the prior sentence. Negative example: Three sentences saying the same idea with different adjectives. Positive example: Claim, evidence, consequence.
Rule: Vary Rhythm Intentionally
Description: Alternate short and medium-length sentences to maintain flow. Negative example: Ten consecutive one-line sentences with no development. Positive example: Short opener, two explanatory lines, short closer.
Quick Self-Check
- Can a skim reader understand the argument in under 20 seconds?
- Are section openings concrete and specific?
- Does each paragraph earn its space?
- Are long sentences carrying essential detail, not filler?