How to Fix Word Readability Statistics Missing from the New Editor
Question details
Users are unable to view Flesch-Kincaid and other readability statistics after Microsoft Word transitioned from the classic Spell Check to the new Editor feature.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Checking spelling, grammar, and calculating document readability scores.
- Observed behavior
- The readability statistics dialog does not appear after completing a grammar check, even when the option to show readability statistics is enabled in settings.
Ensure you have checked your Word Proofing settings (File > Options > Proofing) to verify that the 'Show readability statistics' option is actually enabled before concluding it is a version-related limitation.
Submit Feedback to Restore Readability Statistics
Since the missing readability statistics is a known behavior in the new Microsoft Word Editor, submitting direct feedback is the official method to request the feature's return.
The transition from the classic Spell Check to the new Microsoft Editor has caused readability statistics to stop appearing for many users. Microsoft has acknowledged this change in recent Word versions.
Launch your Microsoft Word application and open any existing document or create a new one.
Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of the ribbon, then select 'Feedback' from the bottom of the left-hand navigation pane.
Select the option to send a suggestion. Request that the Flesch-Kincaid readability statistics be restored to the new Editor experience, and click submit.
Try WPS Writer for a Reliable Word Processing Experience
If you are frustrated by missing features and sudden UI changes in the latest Microsoft Word updates, try WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative with a familiar interface, ensuring your document workflow remains straightforward and uninterrupted.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office installer.
- 2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing .docx files to continue editing with full compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Word remove the readability statistics?
Microsoft transitioned from the classic Spell Check dialog to the new Microsoft Editor. During this integration, the classic readability prompt (which included Flesch-Kincaid scores) was omitted from the standard post-check workflow in newer versions.
How do I turn on readability statistics in older versions of Word?
Go to File > Options > Proofing. Under the 'When correcting spelling and grammar in Word' section, ensure the box for 'Show readability statistics' is checked. You must then run a full spelling and grammar check to see the prompt.
What are Flesch-Kincaid readability statistics?
They are standardized readability tests designed to indicate how difficult a reading passage in English is to understand. The statistics typically include a Reading Ease score (higher is easier to read) and a Grade Level score (indicating US school grade level).
