Thematic Map > Literacy - World

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Definition: This entry includes a definition of literacy and Census Bureau percentages for the total population, males, and females. There are no universal definitions and standards of literacy. Unless otherwise specified, all rates are based on the most common definition - the ability to read and write at a specified age. Detailing the standards that individual countries use to assess the ability to read and write is beyond the scope of the Factbook. Information on literacy, while not a perfect measure of educational results, is probably the most easily available and valid for international comparisons. Low levels of literacy, and education in general, can impede the economic development of a country in the current rapidly changing, technology-driven world.

Description: The map displayed here shows how Literacy varies by country. The shade of the country corresponds to the magnitude of the indicator. The darker the shade, the higher the value.

Source: CIA World Factbook - Unless otherwise noted, information in this page is accurate as of January 1, 2020

See also: Literacy bar chart