Using Numbers in Writing

I am sure you have wondered, “Are there really any rules when using numbers in writing?’’ 

Well, there are a few standards you should be familiar with, and they are outlined below: 

§ In scientific and technical writing, most numbers are written in figures. This is especially true for statistics and measurements.

o Example: Less than ½ of those polled responded.

§ In nontechnical writing, fractions and numbers 100 and below are usually written out.

o Example: one-half of clowns.

§ For round numbers over 100, like 200, 300, 1,000, 2,000, and 3,000, you can write them out in words. Round numbers can be expressed in two words (two hundred, one thousand). Otherwise, use figures.

o Examples: five thousand (round number), 66,987 (not a round number, so use figures).

§ Use numbers consistently.

o Example: Today, 23 lions and 67 dogs were trained.

o Or

o Today, twenty-three lions and sixty-seven dogs were trained.

§ Use figures in dates and addresses and with abbreviations and symbols. Example: April 14, 1988.

§ Numbers used with o’clock, past, to, till, and until are generally written out.

o Example: seven o’clock, twenty past one.

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