Use the following formats when writing numbers:
- Below 10, spell out: one–nine
- 10 and above, numbers: 10–999,999 (use commas from 1,000 to avoid confusion with years)
- Numbers and words: 1 million
If a sentence or paragraph contains many numbers, some over 10 and some below, use numerals throughout to allow easier reading.
- There were 2 pencils, 10 pens, 36 markers and 16 notebooks in the cupboard.
Always spell out numbers when used as the first word of a sentence.
- Fifteen students attended the lecture.
- 15 students attended the lecture.
When writing for the web
Numerals are preferred as they are easier to read on the screen.