This entry summarises key elements for formatting numbers, such as:
Different types of numbers have different spacing between the numeral and its related unit or symbol:
| Number type | Examples | ||
| Large numbers | 21.7 million | $3.3m | 4b |
60 kilometres | 1 L | 8C | |
| Parts of something | Milestone 5 | Stage 3 | Chapter 21 |
54.3% | 4% | 0.1% | |
21 May 1950 | 8 am | 4.30 pm | |
2nd | 10th | 101st | |
| Spans of numbers | 5–10 years |
Always use a non-breaking space between any numerals and words so they don’t split awkwardly over a line.
If you’re using mathematical symbols, for example to show a negative number or an equation, make sure you insert the correct symbol.
Most word processors will have a symbol menu, which will be more accurate that using the keyboard, especially for the minus and multiplication signs. Avoid using a hyphen or a lower case ‘x’ for these.
If you’re using a table, align:
Most word processors have formatting options that allow you to align decimal points easily.
| Period | Usage (Kl) | Charge | |
| First period | 87 | $95.70 | |
| Second period | 120 | $132.00 | |
| Third period | 176 | $193.60 | |
| Fourth period | 162 | $181.44 |