Highlight Long Sentences

Visualize sentence length to spot run-on sentences that are hard to read.

Readability Stats

Avg Words
20
Longest
44
Total Sentences
3

Settings

Length Limit25 words
Strict (10)Relaxed (60)
Very Long (>25)Hard to read. Consider splitting.
1
Long (>19)Acceptable in moderation.
Good LengthEasy to read.
This is a short sentence. This is a somewhat medium sentence that has a comfortable length. However, this is a very long sentence that seems to go on forever without stopping, using many commas, clauses, and extra words that make the reader lose their breath and forget what the original point of the sentence even was in the first place.

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Visualizing Your Writing Rhythm

Good writing has a rhythm. It breathes. When sentences get too long, that rhythm breaks, and your reader starts to suffocate. The Highlight Long Sentences tool is your visual editor, color-coding your text to reveal the dense, breathless blocks that need distinct surgery. It helps you identify "run-on" sentences that can confuse readers and lower your readability score.

Understanding Sentence Length and Readability

Sentence length is one of the most critical factors in readability. Research by the American Press Institute shows that:

  • Sentences of 8 words or less are understood 100% of the time.
  • Sentences of 14 words have 90% comprehension.
  • Sentences of 43 words have less than 10% comprehension.

This doesn't mean you should only write short sentences. A mix is best. Short sentences add punch and clarity. Long sentences add flow and nuance. But when too many sentences are long, your reader gets tired. This tool helps you find that balance.

Why Track Length?

Visual Map

See at a glance where your writing gets too dense.

Custom Limits

Set your own definition of "too long" (e.g., 25 words).

Improve Clarity

Short sentences are punchy, clear, and persuasive.

Spot Run-ons

Catch sentences that ramble before your readers do.

How to Use the Heatmap

Green (Safe)

Short, snappy sentences (under 20 words). These are your bread and butter. They are easy to read and punchy.

Amber (Caution)

Getting long (20-30 words). Use these to connect complex ideas, but don't overuse them. Too many amber sentences in a row make text dense.

Red (Danger)

Too long (30+ words). These are difficult to process. Split these into two or three separate sentences immediately for better clarity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Long Sentences

  1. Paste your text: Copy your draft from Word, Google Docs, or your CMS into the tool.
  2. Scan for Red: Your eye will naturally be drawn to the red blocks. These are your priority targets.
  3. Find the Joint: Look for conjunctions (and, but, or) in the red sentences. These are often the best places to break the sentence in half.
  4. Edit in Place: You can edit directly in the tool (if supported) or switch back to your document to make the split.
  5. Check the Flow: Once the red is gone, look at the spread of Green and Amber. Do you have variety? Or is it all Green (choppy)? Aim for a mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are long sentences bad?

Long sentences require more 'working memory' from the reader. If a sentence is too long, the reader might forget the beginning by the time they reach the end, leading to confusion and disengagement.

What is the ideal sentence length?

Most experts recommend an average of 15-20 words per sentence for general audiences. However, variety is key—mixing short (5-10 words) and medium (15-25 words) sentences creates a pleasing rhythm.

Does this tool rewrite my text?

No, it is a visual analyzer. It highlights problem areas so you can decide how best to split or simplify them yourself, preserving your unique voice.

What does the red highlight mean?

Red indicates a 'Very Long' sentence that exceeds your chosen threshold. These are the highest priority for editing.

Can I change the definition of 'Long'?

Yes! Use the slider in the settings panel to adjust the threshold. Academic writing might tolerate 30-word sentences, while marketing copy might aim for 15.

Does it count words accurately?

Yes, it splits text by spaces to count words. It's smart enough to handle punctuation attached to words without counting them as separate words.

Is longer always worse?

Not always. A long sentence can be beautiful and rhythmic if well-structured. But if every sentence is long, your writing becomes exhausting. Use this tool to ensure balance.

What is a 'Run-on' sentence?

Strictly speaking, a run-on sentence happens when two independent clauses are joined without proper punctuation. While this tool measures length, extremely long sentences are often run-ons in disguise.

Is my text saved anywhere?

No. All analysis happens instantly in your browser. Your text is never uploaded to any server.

Does it work for academic papers?

Yes. Even complex topics benefit from clear, concise writing. Identifying 50+ word sentences is crucial for making dense academic text readable.