Writing Numbers As Both Numerals And Words

Writing numbers can sometimes feel like navigating a minefield of rules and preferences. Should you use numerals (1, 2, 3) or spell them out as words (one, two, three)? The answer isn't always straightforward, and it often depends on the context, style guide, and the type of writing you're doing. This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of writing numbers, covering everything from basic rules to specific style guide recommendations, ensuring you can confidently and accurately represent numbers in any writing situation.

Introduction to Representing Numbers in Writing

The decision to use numerals or words when writing numbers is a matter of style and consistency. Different style guides (such as APA, MLA, Chicago, and AP) offer specific rules, but some general principles apply across the board. Clarity and readability are paramount. Overusing numerals can make text look cluttered, while spelling out every number can be tedious. Finding the right balance enhances the overall quality of your writing.

Why Does It Matter?

• Clarity: Consistent and correct use of numbers makes your writing clear and easy to understand.
• Professionalism: Following established style guidelines enhances your credibility.
• Readability: Proper number representation improves the flow and readability of your text.
• Consistency: Uniformity in number representation creates a polished and coherent piece of writing.

General Rules for Writing Numbers

Before diving into specific style guide rules, let's cover the general guidelines that often apply:

1. Whole Numbers Below Ten: Generally, spell out whole numbers less than ten (one through nine).

   • Example: "I have five apples and two oranges."

2. Whole Numbers Ten and Above: Use numerals for whole numbers ten and greater.

   • Example: "There are 12 students in the class, and 35 more are expected."

3. Beginning of Sentences: Always spell out numbers that begin a sentence, regardless of their value.

   • Incorrect: "150 people attended the conference."

   • Correct: "One hundred fifty people attended the conference."

   • Note: It's often better to reword the sentence to avoid starting with a number.

     • Revised: "The conference was attended by 150 people."

4. Consistent Category: Within a sentence or paragraph, if you are discussing similar types of numbers, maintain consistency. If one number is ten or greater, use numerals for all.

   • Inconsistent: "I bought 3 shirts and 12 pairs of socks."
   • Consistent: "I bought 3 shirts and 12 pairs of socks."
   • Consistent: "I bought three shirts and twelve pairs of socks."

5. Large Round Numbers: For large, round numbers, you can use a combination of numerals and words for readability.

   • Example: "The company made $5 million in revenue."

6. Fractions and Decimals: Generally, use numerals for fractions and decimals.

   • Example: "The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of sugar, and the temperature is 98.6°F."

7. Percentages: Always use numerals with the percent sign (%).

   • Example: "The sales increased by 25%."

8. Units of Measurement: Use numerals with abbreviations or symbols for units of measurement.

   • Example: "The table is 6 ft long and weighs 20 kg."

9. Ages: Generally, use numerals for ages.

   • Example: "She is 7 years old, and her brother is 15."

10. Specific Contexts: Certain contexts, like scientific or technical writing, may favor numerals for all numbers. Always adhere to the conventions of your field.

Style Guide Specifics

Different style guides have specific rules for number representation. Here's a look at some of the most common style guides:

1. APA Style (American Psychological Association)

APA style is commonly used in social sciences, psychology, and education.

• General Rule: Use numerals for numbers 10 and above; spell out numbers below 10.

• Exceptions:

  • Spell out any number that begins a sentence, title, or heading.

  • Use numerals for numbers in:

    • Abstracts
    • Graphical displays
    • Statistical or mathematical functions
    • Ratios
    • Percentages
    • Scores
    • Points on a scale
    • Ages
    • Times
    • Dates
    • Degrees of temperature
    • Money
    • Page numbers
    • Figures
    • Tables

  • Example: "Nine participants completed the first part of the study. 15 participants completed the second part."

• Combining Numerals and Words: Use a combination for large numbers.

  • Example: "2.5 million people were affected by the disaster."

• Series of Numbers: If you have a series of numbers and one is 10 or greater, use numerals for all.

  • Example: "The participants included 5 children, 11 teenagers, and 20 adults."

• Decimal Fractions: Use numerals for decimal fractions.

  • Example: "0.75 inches"

• Common Fractions: Spell out common fractions if they stand alone.

  • Example: "One-half of the respondents agreed."

2. MLA Style (Modern Language Association)

MLA style is typically used in humanities disciplines like literature, languages, and cultural studies.

• General Rule: Spell out whole numbers that can be expressed in one or two words (zero through one hundred). Use numerals for other numbers.

  • Example: "Twenty-five students and 125 faculty members attended the lecture."

• Exceptions:

  • Always spell out numbers that begin a sentence.
  • Use numerals for:
    • Page numbers
    • Addresses
    • Dates
    • Identification numbers
    • Act, scene, and line numbers in plays
    • Volume and issue numbers in periodicals
  • Example: "The article appeared on page 245."

• Large Numbers: Use a combination of numerals and words for large round numbers.

  • Example: "3 million people"

• Consecutive Numbers: If you have two numbers appearing next to each other, spell out one of them to avoid confusion.

  • Example: "Two hundred 20 students" (instead of "200 20 students")

• Percentages: Use numerals for percentages.

  • Example: "15% increase"

3. Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS)

The Chicago Manual of Style is widely used in book publishing, history, and other academic fields.

• General Rule: Spell out whole numbers from zero through one hundred, as well as round numbers (e.g., one hundred, two thousand). Use numerals for other numbers.

  • Example: "Forty-five people attended, while 1,250 watched online."

• Exceptions:

  • Spell out numbers that begin a sentence.
  • Use numerals for:
    • Dates
    • Addresses
    • Chapter numbers
    • Page numbers
    • Decimals
    • Fractions
    • Percentages
    • Statistical data
  • Example: "The event took place on October 27, 2023."

• Large Numbers: Use a combination of numerals and words for large round numbers.

  • Example: "$5 million"

• Consecutive Numbers: As with MLA, spell out one of the numbers if two numbers appear consecutively to avoid confusion.

  • Example: "Twenty 100-watt bulbs"

• Fractions: Chicago offers flexibility in handling fractions; it's acceptable to spell them out (e.g., "one-half") or use numerals (e.g., "1/2"). Consistency is key.

4. AP Style (Associated Press)

AP style is commonly used in journalism and news writing.

• General Rule: Spell out whole numbers one through nine. Use numerals for 10 and above.

  • Example: "Five candidates and 15 volunteers participated."

• Exceptions:

  • Ages: Use numerals.

    • Example: "8-year-old boy"

  • Dates: Use numerals.

    • Example: "April 1"

  • Percentages: Use numerals and the percent sign.

    • Example: "12%"

  • Money: Use numerals.

    • Example: "$5" (but spell out when it's less than a dollar: "5 cents")

  • Dimensions: Use numerals.

    • Example: "5 feet 6 inches"

  • Millions and Billions: Use a combination of numerals and words.

    • Example: "$2 million"

  • Scores: Use numerals.

    • Example: "The score was 3-2."

• Starting Sentences: Spell out numbers that begin a sentence. Try to reword the sentence to avoid this when possible.

  • Example: "Ten people were injured." or better: "Injuries were sustained by 10 people."

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Inconsistency: Mixing numerals and spelled-out numbers within the same context.
• Starting Sentences with Numerals: Forgetting to spell out numbers at the beginning of sentences.
• Incorrectly Using Hyphens: Not using hyphens correctly in compound numbers (e.g., twenty-one, not twenty one).
• Ignoring Style Guide Rules: Failing to adhere to the specific rules of the required style guide.
• Overusing Numerals: Cluttering text with too many numerals when spelling out the numbers would be clearer.

Practical Examples and Exercises

To solidify your understanding, let's look at some practical examples and exercises:

Examples:

1. Incorrect: "The team consisted of 4 players under the age of ten and 11 players over the age of ten."
   • Correct (General Rule): "The team consisted of 4 players under the age of 10 and 11 players over the age of 10."
   • Correct (APA Style): "The team consisted of four players under the age of 10 and 11 players over the age of 10."
2. Incorrect: "Fifty people attended the meeting, and 200 more watched online."
   • Correct: "Fifty people attended the meeting, and two hundred more watched online."
   • Revised (Better): "The meeting was attended by 50 people, and 200 more watched online."
3. Incorrect: "I need one half cup of flour and 2 eggs."
   • Correct: "I need one-half cup of flour and 2 eggs."

Exercises:

Rewrite the following sentences, correcting any errors in number representation and adhering to general writing rules:

1. "There were 7 apples, 12 oranges, and 3 bananas in the basket."
2. "The recipe calls for .5 cups of sugar."
3. "100 students attended the lecture."
4. "The building is 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide."
5. "He is 6 years old, and she is 14."

Answers:

1. "There were 7 apples, 12 oranges, and 3 bananas in the basket." (Consistent category rule)
   • Alternative: "There were seven apples, twelve oranges, and three bananas in the basket."
2. "The recipe calls for 0.5 cups of sugar." (Decimals should be expressed as numerals.)
3. "One hundred students attended the lecture." (Numbers that begin a sentence must be spelled out.)
   • Better: "100 students attended the lecture." (Reword the sentence.)
4. "The building is 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide." (Use numerals for units of measurement.)
5. "He is 6 years old, and she is 14." (Use numerals for ages.)

Advanced Considerations

• Technical Writing: In highly technical fields, using numerals for all numbers is often preferred for precision and clarity. Always follow the conventions of your specific discipline.
• Legal Writing: Legal documents often have very specific rules about number representation. Consult legal style guides for guidance.
• Creative Writing: In creative writing, you have more flexibility. Consider the tone and style of your piece. Sometimes, spelling out numbers can add a certain aesthetic quality.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of writing numbers correctly enhances the clarity, professionalism, and readability of your work. While general rules provide a solid foundation, adhering to the specific guidelines of your chosen style manual is essential. By understanding these principles and practicing consistently, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of number representation in any writing context.