Gently squeeze the avocado; it should yield slightly to pressure
Check the skin color; many ripe avocados darken as they ripen
Remove the stem cap; if it comes off easily and is green underneath, it is likely ripe
If the stem cap is brown underneath, the avocado may be overripe
If the avocado feels very firm, it is not ripe yet
If it feels mushy, it is likely overripe
Look for a slight softness near the top, not a completely soft fruit
Avoid avocados with large dents, cracks, or sunken spots
Use ripe avocados soon, or refrigerate them to slow further ripening