How should we format units in scientific writing?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the correct formatting of units in scientific writing, specifically focusing on whether to include a space between the number and the unit (e.g., 1 mm vs. 1mm). The conversation touches on stylistic preferences and conventions in scientific documentation.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that there should be a space between the number and the unit.
  • Another participant humorously notes that while some may prefer the space, it is unlikely to cause confusion if omitted.
  • A later reply introduces a playful ambiguity regarding the meaning of "mm," questioning whether it refers to millimeter or micromanager.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of using a space to differentiate between meanings, while another adds a humorous take on the term "micromanager."
  • A participant provides additional formatting guidelines, stating that units should not be italicized, while also discussing the formatting of variables, constants, and function names.
  • There is mention of exceptions to the rules regarding italics for units, but no consensus on specific formatting standards is reached.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the necessity of a space between the number and the unit, and while some formatting rules are discussed, no consensus is reached on a definitive standard.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights varying preferences and interpretations of formatting rules, with some participants acknowledging the potential for exceptions and ambiguity in specific contexts.

TESL@
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Hello,

How do we write this correctly:

1 mm or 1mm?

Thanks.
 
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With a space.
Although nobody is going to get confused if you don't. Some language style purists might get an aneurysm, but it's an occupational hazard.
 
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OK, now I can be in peace.
 
Depends. Does the mm stand for millimeter or for micromanager? You ought to use the space, or lack of space, to differentiate between the two.
 
The micromanager being the one hovering close to you, with no space, right?
 
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Likes   Reactions: dlgoff and Bystander
Yes, use the space.

And on a separate note, do not use italics for units (if you were curious).

Most variables and constants (single valued) are written in italics. (Vectors and matrix symbols are sometimes not though, but that's only to distinguish them from single valued constants and variables.) Actual numbers (e.g., 42) are not written in italics either. Nor are parenthesis and brackets. Also function names like sin() and cos() are not written in italics. And units are typically not written in italics. There may be occasional exceptions to these rules.
 

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