The 1,000 words checker

The 1,000 most commonly used words in English make up about 75% of the language as it’s actually used. In Simply Put, I write about how important it is to make sure we’re speaking the same language as our audience, and this metric is a great way to stress-test your message.

Drop your text below, click that big button, and it will automatically flag words in red which aren’t on the list. You don’t only have to use the popular words to be understood, but it will help you visualize where you might be more complicated than you need to be.

Start with the simplest possible language and go from there. Don’t reach for the big words unless you absolutely have to—they’ll pack more punch when you use them sparingly. But when in doubt, clear beats clever.





BTW: This tool isn't perfect. Some versions of common words will be flagged. But you get gist of it.
Thank you to wordfrequency.info for the word data, and to Randall Munroe for the inspiration.

Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win – and How to Design Them

Why do some messages work when others don't? Why do some ideas break through, why do some slogans stick in your brain, and why do some leaders inspire change – when others don't? The answer is simple. Literally.

But that doesn't mean it's easy. In Simply Put, Ben Guttmann unveils a five-part framework that allows anybody to communicate with clarity. With this book, you'll be able to design messages that are beneficial, focused, salient, empathetic, and minimal – and that work.

Check out the book
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