Numbers

Index
  1. Approximation
  2. Cardinal numbers
  3. Numbers: when to use figures
  4. Ordinal numbers
  5. Percentages

Approximation⚓

It is better to round a big number up or down for the learner to grasp it quickly. Click here[1] for examples.

Adverbs such as “about, around, roughly, some” should be used only with round numbers (generally rounded to the nearest ten). Click here[2] for examples.

Cardinal numbers⚓

As a rule, one to ten should be written out in full, even if the sentence contains another number greater than ten. Click here[3] for examples.

However, they may be written as figures in lists or tables, in percentages, in the names of articles and resolutions, with an abbreviated unit of measurement, weight, if you need to fit everything on one line, etc. Click here[4] for examples.

Numbers: when to use figures⚓

Numbers from 11 on should normally be expressed in figures, though in isolated references or narrative texts they may be written out in full. Click here[5] for examples.

Ordinal numbers⚓

Ordinal numbers usually follow the same rule as cardinal numbers. In many cases, however, it is more natural to write the number in full. Click here[6] for examples.

Please do not use superscript for “1st/2nd/3rd/4th”, etc. So “1st” not “1st”.

Percentages⚓

In running text, prefer “per cent” (not percent) to “%”. However, you may use the % symbol if you need to save space (e.g. banners, headlines, tables) or would achieve greater clarity by using it.

TipAdditional tips:⚓

  • Avoid starting a sentence with a figure. Instead, either spell out the number if it is short.

  • For large numbers, please use commas (not spaces or apostrophes). Click here[7] for examples.

  • In a general text where the exact number does not matter, please abbreviate by rounding up or down to one figure after the decimal point. Click here[8] for examples.

  • In running text, prefer “million” and “billion” to “m” and “bn”. However, in tables, reports, etc. “m” may be used in order to save space, but only if in the context “m” cannot be confused with “metres”.

For more examples of how to write with numbers and information on how to write using currency, time and dates, please see the English Style Guide.