Svårlästa

Svårlästa is a Swedish adjective used to describe texts, handwriting, or other materials that are difficult to read. The term is commonly applied in discussions of readability and accessibility, and it can refer to typography, layout, vocabulary, or sentence structure that hinders comprehension.

In typography and design, svårlästa materials often involve small font sizes, insufficient contrast, dense line length, long lines, cramped line spacing, or highly decorative or stylized typefaces. In writing, long sentences, complex syntax, the use of jargon or unfamiliar terms, and a lack of headings or structure can make texts svårlästa. Handwriting can be svårlästa when letters are poorly formed, inconsistent, or spaced irregularly.

The concept is relevant for accessibility, since svårlästa texts create barriers for groups such as readers with dyslexia, visual impairments, or those who are not fluent in the language. Public information, legal documents, and educational materials are often evaluated for readability to ensure they are more inclusive.

Readability is sometimes measured with indices used in Swedish, such as the LIX index, which assess factors like average sentence length and the proportion of long words. Strategies to reduce svårlästa characteristics include using plain Swedish, shorter sentences, active voice, defined terms, clear headings, bullet points, and summaries. In digital contexts, adhering to accessibility guidelines and ensuring adequate contrast, legible typography, and responsive layouts also help.

See also: lättläst, läsbarhet, tillgänglighet, WCAG, LIX.