Grammar of Numbers Worksheets

Core Standard
Answer Keys Here

When we are composing a lengthy body of written work it is often confusing as to whether we should spell out a number as a word or just write the number. This aspect of the English language is a bit frustrating because there is not a common form standard in place. There three language style guides we often follow (APA, MLA, and Chicago) and they all differ slightly as to their guidance with the grammar of numbers. Because of this the common really is that in most instances it is the choice of the writer or author. The basic premise to be maintain a high level of consistency. If you begin by using numerals, then you should continue to use numerals in the work as they come up. We detail a number of situations below which situations call specifically form one form or another that are covered under all style guides. In this series of worksheets, we will explore these specific circumstances and give you a great deal of practice to improve your ability to use the proper format in your writing.

Grammar of Numbers Worksheets:

Starting Sentences with a Number - The grammar of numbers is the way that we write number correctly in a sentence. When starting a sentence with a number, do not use the numeral. Always write out the name of the number.

Pictures to Sentences - Write a sentence to describe each picture. Start each sentence with a number.

Name It - Write the word for each number.

Correct Them - Rewrite each sentence. Write the number as a word.

Number Names - This is more image driven approach than the previous worksheet.

Compound Digits - Use each number in a sentence. Make sure to write out the word for each number.

Sentence Use - Make sure that the grammar flows and the language communicates a message.

Sentence Fix - Rewrite each of the sentence to make corrections.

Using Words of Order - Write the ordinals on the lines.

Ordinal Sentence - Write the word for the integer or the ordinal. Then use each one in a sentence.

Big Order - We will use much bolder ordinals and see where they all fit.

Hyphens - Most numbers from 21 through 99 have a hyphen when written as a word. Numbers that end in a zero do not have a hyphen.

Picture Ordinals - This should help you name the orders of winners in a race.

Fractions - If the numerator or the denominator (or both) already has a hyphen, no additional hyphen is needed. Add an s to the denominator when the numerator is more than one.

In Practice - This is a full review sheet to see where you are at with this skill.

When Should You Spell Out Numbers?


As we told you earlier this choice is largely left up to the consideration of authors, but there are many instances where it is clear you should use one form or another. The first thing you need to consider is the purpose of the work and the audience that you are writing form. If you are writing a scientific or technical writing piece the common practice is to write out numbers that are ten or less. This has an exception, if you are to use numerals at any point, meaning a number greater than ten, decimals, or fractions, everything should be consistently written in numerals. This means that if you use any numerals in your work, then everything must be numeral as well. The purpose of this is to increase readability. This creates a constant environment for your audience, and they will be able to read it more confidently.


There are several general grammar rules for numbers that have become commonplace over the years. If a number starts off a sentence it should be spelled out. To add to that, if you have a compound number (a number with more than one place value) you need to add a hyphen to express the place values. For example, 74 in word form would be expressed as seventy-four. All fractions follow a similar suit and should be hyphenated as well. For example, 3/4 in word form would be written as three-fourths. When writing out values that consist of three or more digits, the use of the word (and) is not necessary unless a decimal point is present. The (and) would be used to express everything after the decimal. For example, (and) would not be necessary to express two hundred sixty-three dollars. It would be necessary if you were to express two hundred sixty-three dollars and twenty-two cents. It is customary to use commas to signify three places when writing numbers that have four or more digits in numeral form. When four or more digits is written in word form that is not necessary. Another common grammar inconsistency is the capitalization of decades. They do not require a capital letter.


Here are some common uses for numerals. Using numerals to express the time of day is widely accepted. Make sure to express the proper meridian time (a.m. or p.m.) to indicate the exact time of day that you are referring to. Unless they begin a sentence, write mixed numbers (6 1/2) in numeral form. When you are working with decimal values, it is often accepted to write them in numeral form. Make sure to include the zero in front of your decimal, if the value is less than one.