[Solution] Grammar/Mechanics Checkup 13: Number Style
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Author: Sarah Bennett
Proper number style is essential for clear, professional business communication. These exercises will help you apply correct number formatting consistently in your documents.
Which of these sentences apply correct number style? Check all that apply.
- The design consultant always had 2 Sharpie markers in their pocket.
- When the chairman called the meeting to order, only 16 members were in attendance.
- Four hundred applications were received by HR last month alone.
View Explanation
Numbers from one to ten should be in word form, and figures should be used for numbers 11 and above. However, numbers (including percentages) that begin sentences must be written out. Numbers larger than 1 million should be expressed with a combination of figures and words.
Choose the best option to complete each sentence.
The executive assistant ordered cases of copy paper.
View Explanation
Use word forms to express numbers from one to ten, small fractions, and numbers that begin sentences.
The earthquake that cracked the work surface in the break room measured on the Richter scale.
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Use word forms to express numbers from one to ten, small fractions, and numbers that begin sentences. Use figures to express numbers 11 and higher, money, dates, clock times, decimals, and percents. Use a combination of words and figures to express sums of 1 million and higher.
Which of these is completely correct?
- Imani has scheduled the meeting for March eleventh, 2019 at eight in the morning.
- Imani has scheduled the meeting for March 11, 2019, at 8 a.m.
- Imani has scheduled the meeting for March 11, 2019, at eight in the morning.
View Explanation
The correct answer is Imani has scheduled the meeting for March 11, 2019, at 8 a.m.
Use word forms to express numbers from one to ten, small fractions, and numbers that begin sentences. Use figures to express numbers 11 and above, money, dates, clock times, decimals, and percents. Use a combination of words and figures to express sums of 1 million and higher. When expressing clock times, use lowercase p.m. and a.m., and do not use zeros at the top of the hour (for example, 3 p.m.).
Which of these sentences express correct number style? Check all that apply.
- Mr. Yu predicted that fifty-five point six percent of his customers would return for follow-up services.
- My salary increased 3 percent last year.
- The professional software package included Web 2.0 applications, but it cost more than $1,200.
View Explanation
Use word forms to express numbers from one to ten, small fractions, and numbers that begin sentences. Use figures to express numbers 11 and above, money, dates, clock times, decimals, and percentages. Use a combination of words and figures to express sums of 1 million and higher.
Choose the selection with the correct number style.
- We saw a 50% increase.
- We saw a 50 percent increase.
View Explanation
Spell out percent rather than using the symbol, but use a figure rather than a word for the preceding number.
