Plurals and Punctuation of Numbers

Correctly handling plurals and punctuation in numbers is essential in academic and scientific writing. Whether dealing with statistical data, mathematical equations, or numerical references, consistency and clarity help maintain readability and professionalism. This article explores common rules and best practices for using plurals and punctuation with numbers.

Plural Forms of Numbers in Academic Writing

One common mistake in academic writing is the incorrect pluralization of numbers. When writing out whole numbers in text, standard pluralization rules apply, but when using numerical figures, plurals do not require an apostrophe. For example:

• Correct: The 1990s were marked by major technological advances.
• Incorrect: The 1990’s were marked by major technological advances.

The apostrophe is only used for possessive forms, not plurals. Read how to properly form plurals in academic writing for more insights.

Punctuating Large Numbers Correctly

In academic and scientific writing, large numbers require consistent punctuation for clarity. Most style guides recommend using commas to separate thousands in figures, while some scientific disciplines prefer spaces:

• 1,000,000 (APA, Chicago, MLA style)
• 1 000 000 (ISO scientific style)

Read how to format numbers in formal writing to ensure consistency across disciplines.

Using Hyphens in Compound Numbers

Hyphenation is required in compound numbers from twenty-one to ninety-nine when written in words:

• Correct: Seventy-five participants completed the survey.
• Incorrect: Seventy five participants completed the survey.

Read how to use hyphens correctly in numerical writing to avoid common errors.

Decimal Points and Comma Usage

The decimal point is typically represented by a period in English-language texts, but some European conventions use a comma:

• English style: 3.14 (three-point-one-four)
• European style: 3,14 (three-comma-one-four)

Understanding regional differences in numerical punctuation is crucial when submitting research to international journals.

Writing Ordinal Numbers Correctly

Ordinal numbers indicate order (first, second, third) and require careful punctuation:

• Correct: The 21st century has seen rapid technological advancements.
• Incorrect: The 21st-century has seen rapid technological advancements (hyphen unnecessary unless used as an adjective: “21st-century innovation”).

Learn how to structure ordinals in scholarly writing.

Expressing Percentages Properly

Percentages should be written according to journal or institutional guidelines. Most scientific papers use the % symbol in figures, while others spell out "percent" in text:

• Correct (scientific writing): The experiment had a success rate of 85%.
• Correct (formal writing): The experiment had a success rate of eighty-five percent.

Read how to present percentages correctly to maintain consistency.

The Role of Superscripts in Numbers

Superscripts are used in academic writing for exponents, footnotes, and ordinal numbers (in some styles). However, excessive use can cause formatting issues. Read how to use superscripts correctly in academic writing to improve document readability.

Conclusion: Ensuring Numerical Accuracy in Writing

Proper handling of plurals and punctuation in numbers ensures clarity in academic writing. Whether formatting large numbers, using decimals, or structuring percentages, following style guidelines is essential. By applying consistent numerical punctuation and pluralization rules, researchers can enhance the readability and professionalism of their work.