#Unteralterbach english guide all professional# Writing Small and Large NumbersĪ simple rule for using numbers in writing is that small numbers ranging from one to ten (or one to nine, depending on the style guide) should generally be spelled out. Larger numbers (i.e., above ten) are written as numerals.įor example, instead of writing "It cost ten-thousand four-hundred and sixteen dollars to renovate the local library," you would write, "It cost $10,416 to renovate the local library." The reason for this is relatively intuitive. Writing out large numbers not only wastes space but could also be a major distraction to your readers. Here is a rule that you can truly rely on: always spell out numbers when they begin a sentence, no matter how large or small they may be. Incorrect: 15 new fiction novels were on display.Ĭorrect: Fifteen new fiction novels were on display. If the number is large and you want to avoid writing it all out, rearrange the sentence so that the number no longer comes first. Revised: There were 15 new fiction novels on display. DecimalsĪnother important factor to consider is whether you are working with a whole number or a decimal. Decimals are always written as numerals for clarity and accuracy. To revisit our library example, perhaps circulation statistics improved in 2015.
If a number falls in the range of one to ten and is not a whole number, it should be written as a numeral. Incorrect: The circulation of library materials increased by four point five percent in 2015.Ĭorrect: The circulation of library materials increased by 4.5% in 2015. When two numbers come next to each other in a sentence, be sure to spell out one of these numbers. The main purpose of this rule is to avoid confusing the reader.
Incorrect: There were 12 4-year-old children waiting for the librarian to begin story time.Ĭorrect: There were 12 four-year-old children waiting for the librarian to begin story time.Ĭorrect: There were twelve 4-year-old children waiting for the librarian to begin story time. Decades and Centuriesĭecades or centuries are usually spelled out, especially if the writing is formal. Incorrect: The library was built in the '50s.Ĭorrect: The library was built in the fifties. If you are referring to a specific year (e.g., 1955), use the numeral.
Consistency Is Key When Using Numbers in Your WritingĪlways strive for consistency, even if it overrides a previous rule. For example, if your document uses numbers frequently, it is more appropriate for all numbers to remain as numerals to ensure that usage is uniform throughout. Similarly, if a single sentence combines small and large numbers, make sure that all the numbers are either spelled out or written as numerals. #Unteralterbach english guide all professional#.
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