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Using Numbers in an Essay

Spell out numbers that can be expressed in either one or two words.

Examples:

• one million
• ninety-nine
• one hundred
• fifteen hundred

Always spell out the number if a sentence begins with a number.

Example: Two thousand twelve was an election year in the United States.

When Should I Use Numerals?

Use numerals if you are writing an essay about a scientific subject or an essay that includes frequent use of numbers, like statistical findings.

Always use numerals:

• in front of units of measurements. Example: 5 millimeters
• with abbreviations such as 6 lbs., 4:20 p.m., $9, 2”, 4%.
• in dates: Example: April 1, 2014
• in decimal fractions: Example: 9.2

Exceptions:

• For large numbers, you may use a combination of numerals and words. Example: 4.5 million
• In general use numerals with % signs, however, you may spell out percentages or amounts of money if you can do so in three words or less. Example: five dollars, forty-five percent, sixty-eight cents.

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• Last Updated: Aug 14, 2023 11:33 AM
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