What’s the importance of text-to-code ratio?

Text-to-code ratio measures how much readable content exists relative to HTML markup in your email. A low ratio-lots of code, little visible text-raises spam flags for several reasons: it suggests content hidden in images (a classic evasion tactic), indicates overly complex templates that may be obfuscating something, or signals auto-generated spam that prioritizes formatting over substance.

While there's no universal threshold, general guidance suggests keeping visible text substantial relative to markup. Image-only emails with minimal text are particularly problematic. They ulook like attempts to evade text-based filtering. Heavy template code for simple messages (thousands of lines of HTML for a short announcement) appears suspicious. The solution isn't to pad emails with hidden text (filters detect that), but to ensure your content actually has readable substance.

Practical approaches: include meaningful text content that explains your offer rather than relying entirely on images. Use efficient HTML that accomplishes layout without excessive nesting or redundancy. Preview your email with images disabled. If uit's incomprehensible without images, you likely have a ratio problem. Good text-to-code ratios emerge naturally from well-designed emails with real content; they become a problem when you're trying to send something that's mostly promotional imagery with minimal substance.