Spelling a number vs writing it

  • Context: High School 
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conventions of spelling out numbers versus using numerals in writing, particularly in academic papers. Participants explore various rules and guidelines that may apply to this topic.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that numbers should be spelled out at the beginning of a sentence, while others emphasize the importance of following a style guide.
  • One participant argues against using two sequential numbers in the same form, advocating for consistency in presentation.
  • A participant expresses discomfort with using numerals in certain contexts, such as in the phrase "There are three main problems," preferring to spell out the number.
  • Another participant mentions the availability of various style guides from different educational institutions and resources.
  • Links to external resources on writing style are shared, with one participant noting a specific guideline they disagree with regarding hyphenation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the rules for spelling out numbers versus using numerals, with multiple competing views and personal preferences expressed throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference the existence of style guides but do not specify which ones are authoritative or universally accepted, leaving the discussion open to interpretation based on individual or institutional preferences.

Dragonfall
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In papers, when should I spell a number (sixteen) and when I should write it using numerals (16)?
 
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Depends on your purpose. The only rule which immediately comes to mind is to spell in words any number which occurs at the beginning of a sentence. Check what is stated in a manual of writing.
 
The only rule that I think is particularly important is not to use two sequential numbers in the same form. "Sixteen 2-liters", not "16 2-liters" or (worse) "Sixteen two-liters".

The only rule that really matters is "follow your style guide".
 
What about when I say "There are three main problems associated with blah blah"? It feels kinda wrong to have "3" there instead of "three".

Also I'm not sure there is a style guide.
 
Plenty of style guides are available. College bookstores, premium bookstores, high school English departments and their teachers (probably many but not all), some dictionaries. Other academic departments in institutions might also have a style guide.

Also, you might find a couple of interesting links to writing style in www.rbs0.com
 

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