A reader asks, “Please discuss the proper way to write numbers in a manuscript.” Only a few years ago, the rule was simple: Write out numbers one to one hundred, numbers at the beginning of a sentence. Do not spell out numerals in dates or other serial numbers, except when used in dialogue. These days, though things are beginning to change. Newspapers are beginning to use numerals rather than spell them out. EX: When he was 5 he lost a tooth. Although this seems to be the trend, I’d say the rule still applies in the case of numbers at the beginnings of sentences, and in dialogue, I’d still write out everything but a year. EX: “In the year 1970,” he said, “I turned twenty-one.” Numerals can be confusing but the decision to write out/not write out usually stems from whichever style book (Chicago Manual of Style or ALA Style Manual) is used by a publication.
Writing Tip for Today: Look up the Chicago Manual and ALA styles and then pick one to use regarding numerals and other style issues. The most important thing is to be consistent.