Check the color: many avocados darken as they ripen, but color varies by variety
Gently squeeze the avocado in your palm; it should yield slightly to pressure
Avoid pressing with your fingertips to prevent bruising
Check the stem cap; if it comes off easily and is green underneath, the avocado is ripe
If the area under the stem is brown, the avocado is overripe
If the stem cap does not come off easily, the avocado is not yet ripe
Feel for a slight softness near the top and overall even firmness
If the avocado feels very firm, it needs more time to ripen
If it feels mushy, it is overripe
Look for a slight give without any sunken spots
Use the avocado soon after it reaches ripeness