Numerals vs. words

Last Updated : Jan 26, 2022 |

Use numerals for quantities of 10 or more. Spell out references to the numbers zero through nine.

Exception for user input

When you represent user input and the user must enter numerals, use the numerals. Do not spell out the numbers.

Use a numeral for any number that precedes a unit of measure or a unit of time.


Examples
Slide the bracket forward 3 inches.
You need up to 2 hours to activate customer options.

Use a numeral for any number that precedes the word digit or the word pin in phrases such as 6-pin conductor and 5-digit number.

Express large numbers in numerals, and add the word for the appropriate quantity.


Examples
Second fiscal quarter 2004 revenues increased to $1.006 billion, compared to $950 million in the same period last year.
Avaya designs and manages communications networks for more than 1 million businesses worldwide.

When a range includes a mixture of single-digit numbers and multiple-digit numbers, use numerals for both.


Preferred	Discouraged
The range is 0 through 99, and the default is 5.	The range is zero through 99, and the default is 5.

When you use a mixture of single-digit numbers and multiple-digit numbers to refer to the same thing, use numerals for both.


Preferred	Discouraged
Passwords can consist of 1 to 10 alphanumeric characters.	Passwords can consist of one to 10 alphanumeric characters.
Use an 885A adapter to consolidate the 12 individual line pairs into 6 line pairs in each of the two cables.	Use an 885A adapter to consolidate the 12 individual line pairs into six line pairs in each of the 2 cables.

Note that in the third example, 12 and 6 refer to line pairs. Two refers to cables and not line pairs. Thus, two is spelled out.

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