Gently squeeze the avocado in your palm
It should yield slightly to firm pressure
Check the color if it is a Hass avocado
Darker skin often means it is riper
Remove the stem cap
If it comes off easily and is green underneath, it is ripe
If it is brown underneath, it may be overripe
If it is hard under the stem cap, it is not ripe yet
Look for a slight softness near the top
Avoid avocados with large sunken spots or mushy areas
Compare with other avocados for firmness
Let it ripen at room temperature if it is still hard