When typing a paper and dealing with numbers, do you write out twenty-four or can you just write 24?

Question

For example, I am writing a lesson plan now, and I am saying "give each group twenty-four sheets of construction paper," and want to know if it is also acceptable to just write the number 24.

You guys are so smart. I love you.

Answer 1

All numbers, zero through nine are always written out in letters when being used as the outcome of a count or quantity. Numbers 10 through infinity are written in numerals.

If the number is for an address, uniform number, or anything else where the number is a symbol instead of a sum, use the numeral for all occasions.

Answer 2

Yes - generally, once you get over 10, you can just type the digits instead of spelling out the number. In any case, it's silly to type out twenty-four when 24 is quite clear.

By the way, to further support this, here is the blue book of grammar rules page about writing numbers...

http://www.grammarbook.com/numbers/numbers.asp

Answer 3

Any numeral ten or less MUST be written out and the rest can be but do not have to be.
For a lesson plan I personally would not write out twenty-four, I'd say 24.
But you are discussing numerals, numbers are the value placed on the numeral.
Just a technicality but I'm a teacher!!
Go teachers, we rock!!

Answer 4

The general rule is to use the word if the number is one word - e.g., twelve. Use the numerals for multi-word numbers like 24. The exception is at the beginning of a sentence - always use the words.

Answer 5

As this is a lesson plan, I don't see any particular constraint either way.

This isn't for a particular degree program that has a set standard like APA, right?

If not, I would expect that you can use what ever format you want.

Of course if there is a standard used by others that is well established, you would probably be prudent to adhere to whatever standard has become common.

Just my .01

-dh

Answer 6

Formally, you would write out twenty four (24)

Answer 7

It depends on the circumstance. You can use numbers when typing a date, like August 21, 1998. Other than that, most teachers do not like the use of numbers.

Answer 8

The numbers one through ten are written out as words, but 11 onward are done as numerals.

Answer 9

24 should be fine. I think either way is acceptable. 24 is just easier to type.

Answer 10

In a formal essay you write it out. If your essay is not formal then you can type the number.