Are You Supposed to Spell Out Numbers in an Essay, or Is It Just a Myth That Numbers Can't Be Friends with Words?

When it comes to writing essays, one of the most debated topics is whether or not you should spell out numbers. Some argue that spelling out numbers adds a touch of elegance and formality to your writing, while others believe that using numerals is more straightforward and easier to read. But what if the truth lies somewhere in between? What if numbers and words can coexist harmoniously in your essay, like two old friends who occasionally argue but always make up in the end?

The Case for Spelling Out Numbers

1. Tradition and Formality: Historically, spelling out numbers has been the preferred method in formal writing. This tradition dates back to a time when numerals were not as commonly used in text, and words were seen as more sophisticated. For example, writing “twenty-five” instead of “25” can give your essay a more polished and refined feel.

2. Clarity in Certain Contexts: In some cases, spelling out numbers can actually make your writing clearer. For instance, when writing about large numbers, it can be easier to read “one million” rather than “1,000,000.” This is especially true when dealing with complex figures or when the number is part of a larger sentence.

3. Consistency: If you choose to spell out numbers, it’s important to be consistent throughout your essay. Mixing numerals and spelled-out numbers can confuse your reader and make your writing appear sloppy. Consistency is key to maintaining a professional tone.

The Case for Using Numerals

1. Efficiency and Readability: Numerals are often easier to read and understand at a glance. This is particularly true in scientific or technical writing, where numbers are frequently used. For example, “The experiment required 250 mL of solution” is more straightforward than “The experiment required two hundred fifty milliliters of solution.”

2. Space-Saving: In some cases, using numerals can save space, which is especially important in essays with strict word limits. For example, “The population of the city is 1,200,000” is more concise than “The population of the city is one million two hundred thousand.”

3. Mathematical and Statistical Contexts: When dealing with mathematical equations, statistics, or data, numerals are almost always preferred. For example, “The average score was 85.6” is more appropriate than “The average score was eighty-five point six.”

The Middle Ground: When to Use Both

1. Small Numbers vs. Large Numbers: A common rule of thumb is to spell out numbers from one to nine and use numerals for numbers 10 and above. For example, “There are five apples on the table” and “There are 15 oranges in the basket.” This approach strikes a balance between readability and formality.

2. Beginning of Sentences: It’s generally recommended to spell out numbers at the beginning of a sentence, regardless of their size. For example, “Twenty-five students attended the lecture” is preferred over “25 students attended the lecture.” This helps maintain the flow of the sentence and avoids awkwardness.

3. Mixed Contexts: In some cases, you may need to use both spelled-out numbers and numerals in the same sentence. For example, “The recipe calls for three eggs, 250 grams of flour, and 100 milliliters of milk.” Here, the small number is spelled out, while the larger quantities are expressed in numerals.

Exceptions to the Rules

1. Dates and Times: When writing dates and times, numerals are typically used. For example, “The event is scheduled for October 5, 2023, at 3:00 PM.” However, when writing out the time in words, you might say, “The event is scheduled for three o’clock in the afternoon.”

2. Percentages: Percentages are usually written with numerals, such as “The interest rate is 5%.” However, in more formal writing, you might see “The interest rate is five percent.”

3. Money: When writing about money, numerals are generally used, especially when dealing with large sums. For example, “The budget for the project is $1,500,000.” However, in less formal contexts, you might see “The budget for the project is one and a half million dollars.”

Conclusion

In the end, whether you choose to spell out numbers or use numerals in your essay depends on the context, the style guide you’re following, and your personal preference. The key is to be consistent and to consider the readability and formality of your writing. Numbers and words can indeed be friends, as long as they respect each other’s space and know when to take the lead.

Related Q&A

Q: Should I spell out numbers in academic writing? A: It depends on the style guide you’re following. Some academic styles, like APA, recommend using numerals for numbers 10 and above, while others, like MLA, suggest spelling out numbers that can be written in one or two words.

Q: How do I handle numbers in dialogue? A: In dialogue, it’s often more natural to spell out numbers, as this reflects how people actually speak. For example, “I have three cats” sounds more conversational than “I have 3 cats.”

Q: What about ordinal numbers? A: Ordinal numbers (first, second, third, etc.) are typically spelled out in formal writing, especially when they appear at the beginning of a sentence. For example, “First, let’s discuss the main points.”

Q: Can I use numerals in bullet points? A: Yes, numerals are often used in bullet points for clarity and consistency, especially in technical or business writing. For example, “1. Increase sales by 10% 2. Reduce overhead costs by 5%.”

Q: Is it ever acceptable to mix numerals and spelled-out numbers? A: Generally, it’s best to avoid mixing numerals and spelled-out numbers in the same context. However, there are exceptions, such as when writing about different types of measurements or when following a specific style guide.