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{{UMoS guideline}} | {{UMoS guideline}} | ||
This page guides the presentation of numbers, dates, times, measurements, currencies and similar material in articles. Its aim is to promote clarity and cohesion; this is especially important | This page guides the presentation of numbers, dates, times, measurements, currencies and similar material in articles. Its aim is to promote clarity and cohesion; this is especially important ''within'' an article. The goal is to make the whole UniWiki easier and more intuitive to use. | ||
Where this manual provides options, consistency should be maintained within an article unless there is a good reason to do otherwise. If discussion cannot determine which style to use in an article, defer to the style used by the first major contributor. | Where this manual provides options, consistency should be maintained within an article unless there is a good reason to do otherwise. If discussion cannot determine which style to use in an article, defer to the style used by the first major contributor. | ||
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Except on pages updated regularly, terms such as {{!xt|now}}, {{!xt|currently}}, {{!xt|to date}}, {{!xt|so far}}, {{!xt|soon}}, and {{!xt|recently}} should usually be avoided in favor of phrases such as {{xt|during the 1990s}}, {{xt|since 2010}}, and {{xt|in August 1969}}. For current and future events, use phrases like {{xt|as of {{CURRENTMONTHNAME}} {{CURRENTYEAR}} }} or {{xt|since the beginning of {{CURRENTYEAR}} }} to signal the time-dependence of the information. | Except on pages updated regularly, terms such as {{!xt|now}}, {{!xt|currently}}, {{!xt|to date}}, {{!xt|so far}}, {{!xt|soon}}, and {{!xt|recently}} should usually be avoided in favor of phrases such as {{xt|during the 1990s}}, {{xt|since 2010}}, and {{xt|in August 1969}}. For current and future events, use phrases like {{xt|as of {{CURRENTMONTHNAME}} {{CURRENTYEAR}} }} or {{xt|since the beginning of {{CURRENTYEAR}} }} to signal the time-dependence of the information. | ||
However, do not replace {{xt|since the beginning of 2005}} with {{xt|as of 2005}} because some information (the | However, do not replace {{xt|since the beginning of 2005}} with {{xt|as of 2005}} because some information (the ''beginning'' of 2005) would be lost. | ||
Relative-time expressions are acceptable for very long periods, such as geological epochs: {{xt|Humans diverged from other primates long ago, but [[wikiquote:Samuel Butler (novelist)#legislature|only recently developed state legislatures]]. }} | Relative-time expressions are acceptable for very long periods, such as geological epochs: {{xt|Humans diverged from other primates long ago, but [[wikiquote:Samuel Butler (novelist)#legislature|only recently developed state legislatures]]. }} | ||
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| {{xt|August{{nbsp}}2, 2001}} | | {{xt|August{{nbsp}}2, 2001}} | ||
| {{xt|Aug{{nbsp}}2, 2001}} | | {{xt|Aug{{nbsp}}2, 2001}} | ||
| A comma follows the year unless followed by other punctuation:<ref>See {{Section link|UniWiki:Manual of Style|Commas}}</ref><br />* {{xt|The weather on March 12, 2005, was clear and warm}}<br /> * {{xt|Everyone remembers July{{nbsp}}21, 1969 | | A comma follows the year unless followed by other punctuation:<ref>See {{Section link|UniWiki:Manual of Style|Commas}}</ref><br />* {{xt|The weather on March 12, 2005, was clear and warm}}<br /> * {{xt|Everyone remembers July{{nbsp}}21, 1969 - when man first landed on the Moon}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
| {{xt|2{{nbsp}}August}} | | {{xt|2{{nbsp}}August}} | ||
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| Do not use these{{nbsp}}formats. | | Do not use these{{nbsp}}formats. | ||
|- | |- | ||
| {{!xt|July''',''' 2001}} | | | ||
{{!xt|July''',''' 2001}} | |||
| rowspan=2| No comma between month and{{nbsp}}year | | rowspan=2| No comma between month and{{nbsp}}year | ||
|- | |- | ||
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====Ranges==== | ====Ranges==== | ||
* Use a dash, or a word such as ''from'' or ''between'', but not both: {{xt|from 1881 to 1886}} (not {{!xt|from 1881{{ndash}}1886}});{{nbsp}} {{xt|between June{{nbsp}}1 and July{{nbsp}}3}} (not {{!xt|between June{{nbsp}}1 | * Use a dash, or a word such as ''from'' or ''between'', but not both: {{xt|from 1881 to 1886}} (not {{!xt|from 1881{{ndash}}1886}});{{nbsp}} {{xt|between June{{nbsp}}1 and July{{nbsp}}3}} (not {{!xt|between June{{nbsp}}1 - July{{nbsp}}3}}) | ||
* A simple '''year{{ndash}}year''' range is written using an en dash (<code>&ndash;</code>) not a hyphen or slash; this dash is usually | * A simple '''year{{ndash}}year''' range is written using an en dash (<code>&ndash;</code>) not a hyphen or slash; this dash is usually ''unspaced'' (that is, with no space on either side); and the range's end year is usually given in full: | ||
: • {{xt|1881{{ndash}}1886}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|1881{{ndash}}1992}} (not {{!xt|1881{{ndash}}86}};{{nbsp}} {{!xt|1881 | : • {{xt|1881{{ndash}}1886}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|1881{{ndash}}1992}} (not {{!xt|1881{{ndash}}86}};{{nbsp}} {{!xt|1881 - 1992}}) | ||
:: Markup: <code>1881{{t|ndash}}1886</code> or <code>1881&ndash;1886</code> | :: Markup: <code>1881{{t|ndash}}1886</code> or <code>1881&ndash;1886</code> | ||
:* '''Two-digit ending years''' ({{xt|1881{{ndash}}82}}, but never {{!xt|1881{{ndash}}882}} or {{!xt|1881{{ndash}}2}}) ''may'' be used in the case of ''two consecutive years;'' in infoboxes and tables where space is limited (using a single format consistently in any given table column); or in certain topic areas if there is a very good reason, such as matching the established convention of reliable sources. | :* '''Two-digit ending years''' ({{xt|1881{{ndash}}82}}, but never {{!xt|1881{{ndash}}882}} or {{!xt|1881{{ndash}}2}}) ''may'' be used in the case of ''two consecutive years;'' in infoboxes and tables where space is limited (using a single format consistently in any given table column); or in certain topic areas if there is a very good reason, such as matching the established convention of reliable sources. | ||
:*The '''slash notation''' ({{xt|2005/2006}}) may be used to signify a fiscal year or other special period, if that convention is used in reliable sources. | :*The '''slash notation''' ({{xt|2005/2006}}) may be used to signify a fiscal year or other special period, if that convention is used in reliable sources. | ||
* Other "simple" ranges use an | * Other "simple" ranges use an ''unspaced'' en dash as well: | ||
:* '''day{{ndash}}day''': {{xt|5{{ndash}}7{{nbsp}}January 1979}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|January{{nbsp}}5{{ndash}}7, 1979}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|elections were held March 5{{ndash}}8}} | :* '''day{{ndash}}day''': {{xt|5{{ndash}}7{{nbsp}}January 1979}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|January{{nbsp}}5{{ndash}}7, 1979}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|elections were held March 5{{ndash}}8}} | ||
:* '''month{{ndash}}month''': {{xt|the 1940 peak period was May{{ndash}}July}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|the peak period was May{{ndash}}July{{nbsp}}1940}};{{nbsp}} (but {{xt|the peak period was May 1940 | :* '''month{{ndash}}month''': {{xt|the 1940 peak period was May{{ndash}}July}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|the peak period was May{{ndash}}July{{nbsp}}1940}};{{nbsp}} (but {{xt|the peak period was May 1940 - July 1940}} uses a ''spaced'' en dash; ''see below''. | ||
* If at least one of the items on either side of the en dash contains a space, then a | * If at least one of the items on either side of the en dash contains a space, then a ''spaced'' en dash ({{tl|snd}}) is used: | ||
:* '''between specific dates in different months''': {{xt|They travelled June{{nbsp}}3 | :* '''between specific dates in different months''': {{xt|They travelled June{{nbsp}}3 - August{{nbsp}}18, 1952}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|They travelled 3{{nbsp}}June - 18{{nbsp}}August 1952}} | ||
:* '''between dates in different years''': | :* '''between dates in different years''': | ||
:: {{xt|'''Charles Robert Darwin''' (12{{nbsp}}February 1809 | :: {{xt|'''Charles Robert Darwin''' (12{{nbsp}}February 1809 - 19{{nbsp}}April}} 1882) was an English naturalist{{nbsp}}... | ||
:: Markup: <code>12{{t|nbsp}}February 1809{{t|snd}}19{{t|nbsp}}April 1882</code> or <code>12&nbsp;February 1809&nbsp;&ndash; 19&nbsp;April 1882</code> | :: Markup: <code>12{{t|nbsp}}February 1809{{t|snd}}19{{t|nbsp}}April 1882</code> or <code>12&nbsp;February 1809&nbsp;&ndash; 19&nbsp;April 1882</code> | ||
:: {{xt|'''Abraham Lincoln''' (February{{nbsp}}12, 1809 | :: {{xt|'''Abraham Lincoln''' (February{{nbsp}}12, 1809 - April{{nbsp}}15, 1865) was the 16th President of{{nbsp}}...}} | ||
:* '''between months in different years''': {{xt|The exception was in force August 1892 | :* '''between months in different years''': {{xt|The exception was in force August 1892 - January 1903}};{{nbsp}} {{xt|The Ghent Incursion (March 1822 - January{{nbsp}}1, 1823) was ended by the New Year's Treaty}} | ||
:: Markup: <code>March 1822{{t|snd}}January{{t|nbsp}}1, 1823</code> or <code>March 1822&nbsp;&ndash; January&nbsp;1, 1823</code> | :: Markup: <code>March 1822{{t|snd}}January{{t|nbsp}}1, 1823</code> or <code>March 1822&nbsp;&ndash; January&nbsp;1, 1823</code> | ||
:* '''Where ''circa'' or other modifiers are used''': {{xt|reigned c. 1393 | :* '''Where ''circa'' or other modifiers are used''': {{xt|reigned c. 1393 - 1414}} ''See {{section link||Uncertain, incomplete, or approximate dates}}, below.'' | ||
* Constructions such as {{xt|1982{{ndash}}present}} (with unspaced ndash), {{xt|January 1, 2011 | * Constructions such as {{xt|1982{{ndash}}present}} (with unspaced ndash), {{xt|January 1, 2011 - present}} (spaced ndash), or {{xt|January 2011 - present}} (spaced ndash) may be used where appropriate, but other constructions may be more appropriate in prose ''(see {{section link||Statements likely to become outdated}}). In tables and infoboxes where space is limited, ''pres.'' may be used ({{xt|1982{{ndash}}pres.}}). Do not use incomplete-looking constructions such as {{!xt|1982{{ndash}}}} and {{!xt|1982{{ndash}}... .}} | ||
* For a '''person still living''': {{xt|'''Serena Williams''' (born September{{nbsp}}26, 1981) is a{{nbsp}}...}}, not {{!xt|(September{{nbsp}}26, 1981 | * For a '''person still living''': {{xt|'''Serena Williams''' (born September{{nbsp}}26, 1981) is a{{nbsp}}...}}, not {{!xt|(September{{nbsp}}26, 1981 - )}} or {{!xt|(born on September{{nbsp}}26, 1981)}}. | ||
:Do not use <code>*</code> to indicate ''born''; use <code>b.</code> only where space is limited e.g. tables and infoboxes; use either <code>born</code> or <code>b.</code> consistently in any given table column. | :Do not use <code>*</code> to indicate ''born''; use <code>b.</code> only where space is limited e.g. tables and infoboxes; use either <code>born</code> or <code>b.</code> consistently in any given table column. | ||
* Where '''birthdate is unknown''': {{xt|'''John Smith''' (died May{{nbsp}}1, 1622){{nbsp}}...}} or {{xt|'''John Smith''' (died 1622){{nbsp}}...}} | * Where '''birthdate is unknown''': {{xt|'''John Smith''' (died May{{nbsp}}1, 1622){{nbsp}}...}} or {{xt|'''John Smith''' (died 1622){{nbsp}}...}} | ||
:Do not use <code>†</code> to indicate ''died''; use <code>d.</code> only where space is limited, with consistency within any given table column. | :Do not use <code>†</code> to indicate ''died''; use <code>d.</code> only where space is limited, with consistency within any given table column. | ||
* An '''overnight period''' may be expressed using a slash between two contiguous dates: {{xt|the night raids of 30/31{{nbsp}}May 1942}} or {{xt|raids of 31{{nbsp}}May{{nbsp}}/ 1{{nbsp}}June 1942}}. | * An '''overnight period''' may be expressed using a slash between two contiguous dates: {{xt|the night raids of 30/31{{nbsp}}May 1942}} or {{xt|raids of 31{{nbsp}}May{{nbsp}}/ 1{{nbsp}}June 1942}}. | ||
: Or use an en dash: (unspaced) {{xt|raids of 30{{ndash}}31{{nbsp}}May 1942}};{{nbsp}} (spaced) {{xt|raids of 31{{nbsp}}May | : Or use an en dash: (unspaced) {{xt|raids of 30{{ndash}}31{{nbsp}}May 1942}};{{nbsp}} (spaced) {{xt|raids of 31{{nbsp}}May - 1{{nbsp}}June 1942}}. | ||
====Uncertain, incomplete, or approximate dates==== | ====Uncertain, incomplete, or approximate dates==== | ||
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: • {{xt|At the birth of Roger Bacon (c. 1214){{nbsp}}...}} | : • {{xt|At the birth of Roger Bacon (c. 1214){{nbsp}}...}} | ||
* Where both endpoints of a range are approximate, c. should appear before each date: | * Where both endpoints of a range are approximate, c. should appear before each date: | ||
: • {{xt|'''Dionysius Exiguus''' (c. 470 | : • {{xt|'''Dionysius Exiguus''' (c. 470 - c. 540){{nbsp}}...}} (not {{!xt|'''Dionysius Exiguus''' (c. 470 - 540){{nbsp}}...}}) | ||
: • {{xt|'''Rameses III''' (reigned c. 1180 – c. 1150{{nbsp}}BCE){{nbsp}}...}} (not {{!xt|'''Rameses III''' (reigned c. 1180 | : • {{xt|'''Rameses III''' (reigned c. 1180 – c. 1150{{nbsp}}BCE){{nbsp}}...}} (not {{!xt|'''Rameses III''' (reigned c. 1180 - 1150{{nbsp}}BCE){{nbsp}}...}}) | ||
* When a date is known to be either of two years (e.g. from a [[Wikipedia:Regnal years of English monarchs|regnal]] or [[Wikipedia:Hijri year|AH]] year conversion, or a known age at death): | * When a date is known to be either of two years (e.g. from a [[Wikipedia:Regnal years of English monarchs|regnal]] or [[Wikipedia:Hijri year|AH]] year conversion, or a known age at death): | ||
: • {{xt|'''Anne Smith''' (born 1912 or 1913; died 2013){{nbsp}}...}} | : • {{xt|'''Anne Smith''' (born 1912 or 1913; died 2013){{nbsp}}...}} | ||
* Other forms of uncertainty should be expressed in words, either in article text or in a footnote: {{xt|April{{nbsp}}14, 1224 (unattested date)}}. Do not use a question mark ({{!xt|1291?}}), because it fails to communicate the nature of the uncertainty. | * Other forms of uncertainty should be expressed in words, either in article text or in a footnote: {{xt|April{{nbsp}}14, 1224 (unattested date)}}. Do not use a question mark ({{!xt|1291?}}), because it fails to communicate the nature of the uncertainty. | ||
* Ranges in which {{xt|c.}}, {{xt|after}}, {{xt|fl.}} or similar forms appear—whether on one or both sides—employ a ''spaced'' endash (<code><nowiki> | * Ranges in which {{xt|c.}}, {{xt|after}}, {{xt|fl.}} or similar forms appear—whether on one or both sides—employ a ''spaced'' endash (<code><nowiki> - </nowiki></code>) and ideally a nonbreaking space should follow very short modifiers such as {{xt|c.}} and {{xt|fl.}}. ''Markup:'' <code><nowiki>1896 - after 1954</nowiki></code> | ||
===<span id="Day, month and season names"></span><span id="Longer periods"></span><span id="Other periods"></span>Other=== | ===<span id="Day, month and season names"></span><span id="Longer periods"></span><span id="Other periods"></span>Other=== | ||
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==Numbers== | ==Numbers== | ||
===Numbers as figures or words=== | ===Numbers as figures or words=== | ||
''See also information on specific situations, elsewhere in this guideline.'' | ''See | ||
also information on specific situations, elsewhere in this guideline.'' | |||
Generally, in article text: | Generally, in article text: | ||
* Integers from zero to nine are spelled out in words. | * Integers from zero to nine are spelled out in words. | ||
* Integers greater than nine | * Integers greater than nine ''expressible in one or two words'' may be expressed either in numerals or in words ({{xt|16}} or {{xt|sixteen}}, {{xt|84}} or {{xt|eighty-four}}, {{xt|200}} or {{xt|two hundred}}). Numbers between 21 and 99 are hyphenated (including when part of a larger number): {{xt|fifty-six}} or {{xt|fifty-six thousand}} but {{xt|five{{nbsp}}hundred}} or {{xt|five{{nbsp}}thousand}}. | ||
* Other numbers are given in numerals ({{xt|3.75}}, {{xt|544}}) or in forms such as {{xt|21{{nbsp}}million}}. Markup: <code><nowiki>21{{nbsp}}million</nowiki></code> | * Other numbers are given in numerals ({{xt|3.75}}, {{xt|544}}) or in forms such as {{xt|21{{nbsp}}million}}. Markup: <code><nowiki>21{{nbsp}}million</nowiki></code> | ||
:* "billion" and "trillion" are understood to represent their [[Wikipedia:Long and short scales|short-scale]] values of 10<sup>9</sup>{{nbsp}}(1,000,000,000) and 10<sup>12</sup>{{nbsp}}(1,000,000,000,000), respectively. Keep this in mind when using material from non-English sources. | :* "billion" and "trillion" are understood to represent their [[Wikipedia:Long and short scales|short-scale]] values of 10<sup>9</sup>{{nbsp}}(1,000,000,000) and 10<sup>12</sup>{{nbsp}}(1,000,000,000,000), respectively. Keep this in mind when using material from non-English sources. | ||
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: • {{xt|86{{nbsp}}men and 103{{nbsp}}women}}, not {{!xt|eighty-six men and 103 women}} | : • {{xt|86{{nbsp}}men and 103{{nbsp}}women}}, not {{!xt|eighty-six men and 103 women}} | ||
: • {{xt|There were 3 winners and 206 losers}}, even though ''3'' would normally be given as ''three''; or {{xt|Three won and two hundred six lost}} (or ''two hundred '''and''' six'' in British English), even though ''two hundred six'' would normally be given as ''206''); but not {{!xt|There were three winners and 206 losers}}. | : • {{xt|There were 3 winners and 206 losers}}, even though ''3'' would normally be given as ''three''; or {{xt|Three won and two hundred six lost}} (or ''two hundred '''and''' six'' in British English), even though ''two hundred six'' would normally be given as ''206''); but not {{!xt|There were three winners and 206 losers}}. | ||
* But adjacent quantities not comparable should usually be in | * But adjacent quantities not comparable should usually be in ''different formats:'' {{xt|twelve 90-minute volumes}} or {{xt|12 ninety-minute volumes}}, not {{!xt|12 90-minute volumes}} or {{!xt|twelve ninety-minute volumes}}. | ||
:* Avoid awkward juxtapositions: {{xt|On February 25, 2011, twenty-one more were chosen}}, not {{!xt|On February 25, 2011, 21 more were chosen}}. | :* Avoid awkward juxtapositions: {{xt|On February 25, 2011, twenty-one more were chosen}}, not {{!xt|On February 25, 2011, 21 more were chosen}}. | ||
* Personal ages are typically stated in figures ({{xt|8-year-old child}}) except for large, approximate values ({{xt|69-million-year-old fossil}}). | * Personal ages are typically stated in figures ({{xt|8-year-old child}}) except for large, approximate values ({{xt|69-million-year-old fossil}}). | ||
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: • Not {{!xt|There were many matches'''.''' 23 ended in a draw}}, | : • Not {{!xt|There were many matches'''.''' 23 ended in a draw}}, | ||
: but {{xt|There were many matches''';''' 23{{nbsp}}ended in a draw}} or {{xt|There were many matches'''.''' Twenty-three ended in a draw}}. | : but {{xt|There were many matches''';''' 23{{nbsp}}ended in a draw}} or {{xt|There were many matches'''.''' Twenty-three ended in a draw}}. | ||
: • Not {{!xt|1945 and 1950 saw crucial elections}} (nor {{!xt|Nineteen forty-five and 1950 saw crucial elections}} | : • Not {{!xt|1945 and 1950 saw crucial elections}} (nor {{!xt|Nineteen forty-five and 1950 saw crucial elections}} - because comparable numbers should be both written in words or both in figures) but {{xt|The elections of 1945 and 1950 were crucial.}} | ||
:* Exception: Where a proper name, technical term, etc., itself beginning with a numeral, opens the sentence ({{xt|1-Naphthylamine is typically synthesized via the Feldenshlager{{ndash}}Glockenspiel process}}) although this can usually be avoided by rewording ({{xt|Feldenshlager{{ndash}}Glockenspiel is the process typically used in the synthesis of 1-naphthylamine}}). | :* Exception: Where a proper name, technical term, etc., itself beginning with a numeral, opens the sentence ({{xt|1-Naphthylamine is typically synthesized via the Feldenshlager{{ndash}}Glockenspiel process}}) although this can usually be avoided by rewording ({{xt|Feldenshlager{{ndash}}Glockenspiel is the process typically used in the synthesis of 1-naphthylamine}}). | ||
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* Spelled-out fractions are hyphenated: {{xt|seven-eighths}}. | * Spelled-out fractions are hyphenated: {{xt|seven-eighths}}. | ||
* Where numerator and denominator can each be expressed in one word, a fraction is usually [[Wikipedia:Fractions#Pronunciation and spelling|spelled out]] (e.g. {{xt|a two-thirds majority}}; {{nbsp}}{{xt|moved one-quarter mile}}); use figures if a fraction appears with a symbol (e.g. {{xt|<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>4</sub>{{nbsp}}mi}} | * Where numerator and denominator can each be expressed in one word, a fraction is usually [[Wikipedia:Fractions#Pronunciation and spelling|spelled out]] (e.g. {{xt|a two-thirds majority}}; {{nbsp}}{{xt|moved one-quarter mile}}); use figures if a fraction appears with a symbol (e.g. {{xt|<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>4</sub>{{nbsp}}mi}} - markup: <code><nowiki><sup>1</sup>&frasl;<sub>4</sub>&nbsp;mi</nowiki></code>, not {{!xt|a quarter of a mi}} or {{!xt|one-quarter mi}}). | ||
* [[Wikipedia:Mixed numbers|Mixed numbers]] are usually given in figures, unspaced (not {{!xt|Fellini's film ''8{{nbsp}}<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub>''}} or {{!xt|''8-<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub>''}} but {{xt|Fellini's film ''8<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub>''}} | * [[Wikipedia:Mixed numbers|Mixed numbers]] are usually given in figures, unspaced (not {{!xt|Fellini's film ''8{{nbsp}}<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub>''}} or {{!xt|''8-<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub>''}} but {{xt|Fellini's film ''8<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub>''}} - markup: <code><nowiki>8<sup>1</sup>&frasl;<sub>2</sub></nowiki></code>). In any case the integer and fractional parts should be consistent (not {{!xt|nine and{{nbsp}}<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub>}}). | ||
* Metric (SI) measurements generally use decimals, not fractions ({{xt|5.25{{nbsp}}mm}}, not {{!xt|5<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>4</sub>{{nbsp}}mm}}). | * Metric (SI) measurements generally use decimals, not fractions ({{xt|5.25{{nbsp}}mm}}, not {{!xt|5<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>4</sub>{{nbsp}}mm}}). | ||
* Do not use special characters such as "½" (deprecated markup: <s><code>&frac12;</code></s> or <s><code>&#189;</code></s>). | * Do not use special characters such as "½" (deprecated markup: <s><code>&frac12;</code></s> or <s><code>&#189;</code></s>). | ||
* Ordinal suffixes such as '''-th''' should not be used with fractions expressed in figures (not {{!xt|each US state has 1/50th of the [[Wikipedia:United States Senate|Senate's]] votes}}; {{!xt|1/8th mile}}, but {{xt|one-fiftieth of the [[Wikipedia:United States Senate|Senate's]] votes}}; {{xt|1/8 mile}}; {{xt|one-eighth mile}}). | * Ordinal suffixes such as '''-th''' should not be used with fractions expressed in figures (not {{!xt|each US state has 1/50th of the [[Wikipedia:United States Senate|Senate's]] votes}}; {{!xt|1/8th mile}}, but {{xt|one-fiftieth of the [[Wikipedia:United States Senate|Senate's]] votes}}; {{xt|1/8 mile}}; {{xt|one-eighth mile}}). | ||
* Dimensionless ratios (i.e. those not incorporating units) are given using numerals and a colon, or numbers-as-words and ''to'': {{xt|favored by a 3:1 ratio}} or {{xt|a three-to-one ratio}}, but not {{!xt|a 3/1 ratio}} or {{!xt|a 3–1 ratio}}. Use a "spaced" colon when a decimal point is present ({{xt|a 3.5 : 1 ratio}} | * Dimensionless ratios (i.e. those not incorporating units) are given using numerals and a colon, or numbers-as-words and ''to'': {{xt|favored by a 3:1 ratio}} or {{xt|a three-to-one ratio}}, but not {{!xt|a 3/1 ratio}} or {{!xt|a 3–1 ratio}}. Use a "spaced" colon when a decimal point is present ({{xt|a 3.5 : 1 ratio}} - markup: <code>a 3.5&nbsp;:&nbsp;1 ratio</code>). Do not use the colon form where units are involved ({{!xt|dissolve using a 3 ml:1 g ratio}})—instead see ''ratios'' section of table at [[#Unit names and symbols|§ Unit names and symbols]], below.'' | ||
===Decimals=== | ===Decimals=== | ||
* A period/full point (<code>.</code>), | * A period/full point (<code>.</code>), ''never'' a comma, is used as the decimal point ({{xt|6.57}}, not {{!xt|6,57}}). | ||
* Numbers between −1 and +1 require a leading zero ({{xt|0.02}}, not {{!xt|.02}}); exceptions are sporting performance averages ({{xt|.430 [[Wikipedia:Batting average|batting average]]}}) and commonly used terms such as {{xt|.22{{nbsp}}caliber}}. | * Numbers between −1 and +1 require a leading zero ({{xt|0.02}}, not {{!xt|.02}}); exceptions are sporting performance averages ({{xt|.430 [[Wikipedia:Batting average|batting average]]}}) and commonly used terms such as {{xt|.22{{nbsp}}caliber}}. | ||
* Indicate repeating digits with an [[Wikipedia:Vinculum (symbol)|overbar]] e.g. <code><nowiki>14.31<span style="text-decoration:overline">28</span></nowiki></code> gives <span style="color:green">14.31<span style="text-decoration:overline">28</span></span>. (Consider explaining this notation on first use.) Do not write e.g. {{!xt|14.31(28)}} because it resembles notations for {{section link||Uncertainty and rounding}}. | * Indicate repeating digits with an [[Wikipedia:Vinculum (symbol)|overbar]] e.g. <code><nowiki>14.31<span style="text-decoration:overline">28</span></nowiki></code> gives <span style="color:green">14.31<span style="text-decoration:overline">28</span></span>. (Consider explaining this notation on first use.) Do not write e.g. {{!xt|14.31(28)}} because it resembles notations for {{section link||Uncertainty and rounding}}. | ||
====Grouping of digits==== | ====Grouping | ||
of digits==== | |||
* Digits should be grouped and separated by commas, ( | * Digits should be grouped and separated by commas, (''never'' a period/full point). | ||
:; Grouping with commas | :; Grouping with commas | ||
:* Left of the decimal point, five or more digits are grouped into threes separated by commas (e.g. {{xt|12,200}}, {{xt|255,200 km}}, {{xt|8,274,527th}}, {{xt|<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>86,400</sub>}}). | :* Left of the decimal point, five or more digits are grouped into threes separated by commas (e.g. {{xt|12,200}}, {{xt|255,200 km}}, {{xt|8,274,527th}}, {{xt|<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>86,400</sub>}}). | ||
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* In the body of non-scientific/non-technical articles, '''percent''' (American English) or '''per cent''' (British English) are commonly used: {{xt|10 percent}}; {{xt|ten percent}}; {{xt|4.5 per cent}}. Ranges are written {{xt|ten to twelve per cent}} or {{xt|ten to twelve percent}}, not {{!xt|ten{{ndash}}twelve per cent}} or {{!xt|ten to twelve{{nbsp}}%}}. | * In the body of non-scientific/non-technical articles, '''percent''' (American English) or '''per cent''' (British English) are commonly used: {{xt|10 percent}}; {{xt|ten percent}}; {{xt|4.5 per cent}}. Ranges are written {{xt|ten to twelve per cent}} or {{xt|ten to twelve percent}}, not {{!xt|ten{{ndash}}twelve per cent}} or {{!xt|ten to twelve{{nbsp}}%}}. | ||
* In the body of scientific/{{zwsp}}technical articles, and in | * In the body of scientific/{{zwsp}}technical articles, and in ''tables and infoboxes'' of any article, the symbol <code>%</code> (unspaced) is more common: {{xt|71%}}, not {{!xt|71 %}} or {{!xt|three %}}. Ranges: {{xt|10{{ndash}}12%}}, not {{!xt|10%{{ndash}}12%}} or {{!xt|10 to 12%}}. | ||
* When expressing the difference between two percentages, do not confuse a percentage change with a change in [[Wikipedia:Percentage point|percentage points]]. | * When expressing the difference between two percentages, do not confuse a percentage change with a change in [[Wikipedia:Percentage point|percentage points]]. | ||
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: • {{xt|1.604(48) × 10<sup>−4</sup> J}} (equivalent to {{xt|(1.604 ± 0.048) × 10<sup>−4</sup> J}})<ref>The number in parentheses is the numerical value of the standard uncertainty referred to the corresponding last digits of the quoted result – see [http://www.physics.nist.gov/cgi-bin/cuu/Info/Constants/definitions.html NIST – Use of concise notation]</ref> | : • {{xt|1.604(48) × 10<sup>−4</sup> J}} (equivalent to {{xt|(1.604 ± 0.048) × 10<sup>−4</sup> J}})<ref>The number in parentheses is the numerical value of the standard uncertainty referred to the corresponding last digits of the quoted result – see [http://www.physics.nist.gov/cgi-bin/cuu/Info/Constants/definitions.html NIST – Use of concise notation]</ref> | ||
: • {{xt|Polls estimated Jones's share of the vote would be 55 percent, give or take about 3 percent}} | : • {{xt|Polls estimated Jones's share of the vote would be 55 percent, give or take about 3 percent}} | ||
* Where explicit | * Where explicit ''uncertainty is unavailable'' (or is unimportant for the article's purposes) round to an appropriate number of [[Wikipedia:Significant digit|significant digits]]; the precision presented should usually be conservative. Precise values (often given in sources for formal or matter-of-record reasons) should be used only where stable and appropriate to the context, or significant in themselves for some special reason. | ||
: • {{xt|The speed of light is defined to be 299,792,458{{nbsp}}m/s}} | : • {{xt|The speed of light is defined to be 299,792,458{{nbsp}}m/s}} | ||
:: | :: ''but'' {{xt|Particle velocities eventually reached almost two-thirds the 300-million-metre-per-second speed of light.}} | ||
: • {{xt|The city's 1920 population was 10,000}} (not {{!xt|population was 9,996}} | : • {{xt|The city's 1920 population was 10,000}} (not {{!xt|population was 9,996}} - an official figure unlikely to be accurate at full precision) | ||
:: | :: ''but'' {{xt|The town was ineligible because its official census figure (9,996) fell short of the statutory minimum of ten thousand }} (unusual case in which the full-precision official population figure is helpful to readers) | ||
: • {{xt| The accident killed 337 passengers and crew, and three airport workers }} (likely that accurate and precise figures were determined) | : • {{xt| The accident killed 337 passengers and crew, and three airport workers }} (likely that accurate and precise figures were determined) | ||
: • {{xt| At least 800 persons died in the ensuing mudslides }} (unlikely that any precise number can be accurate, even if an official figure is issued) | : • {{xt| At least 800 persons died in the ensuing mudslides }} (unlikely that any precise number can be accurate, even if an official figure is issued) | ||
:: | :: ''or'' {{xt| Officials listed 835 deaths, but the Red Cross said dozens more may have gone unreported }} (in reporting conflicting information, give detail sufficient to make the contrast intelligible) | ||
: • {{xt|The jury's award was $8.5{{nbsp}}million{{nbsp}}...}} (where the actual figure was $8,462,247.63) {{xt| ... | : • {{xt|The jury's award was $8.5{{nbsp}}million{{nbsp}}...}} (where the actual figure was $8,462,247.63) {{xt| ... - reduced on appeal to $3,000,001 (one dollar in [[Wikipedia:Actual damages|actual damages]], the remainder in [[Wikipedia:Punitive damages|punitive damages]])}} | ||
* The number of decimal places should be consistent within a list or context ({{xt|The response rates were 41.0 and 47.4 percent, respectively}}, not {{!xt|41 and 47.4 percent}}), unless different precisions are actually intended. | * The number of decimal places should be consistent within a list or context ({{xt|The response rates were 41.0 and 47.4 percent, respectively}}, not {{!xt|41 and 47.4 percent}}), unless different precisions are actually intended. | ||
* It may sometimes be appropriate to note the | * It may sometimes be appropriate to note the ''lack'' of uncertainty information, especially where such information is normally provided and necessary for full interpretation of the figures supplied. | ||
: • {{xt|A local newspaper poll predicted 52 percent of the vote would go to Smith, but did not publish information on the uncertainty of this estimate}} | : • {{xt|A local newspaper poll predicted 52 percent of the vote would go to Smith, but did not publish information on the uncertainty of this estimate}} | ||
* Avoid using "approximately", "about", and similar terms with figures that have merely been approximated or rounded in a normal and expected way, unless the reader might otherwise be misled. | * Avoid using "approximately", "about", and similar terms with figures that have merely been approximated or rounded in a normal and expected way, unless the reader might otherwise be misled. | ||
: • {{xt|The tallest player was 6 feet 3 inches}} (not {{!xt|... about 6 feet 3 inches}} | : • {{xt|The tallest player was 6 feet 3 inches}} (not {{!xt|... about 6 feet 3 inches}} - heights are conventionally reported only to the nearest inch, even though greater precision may be available in principle) | ||
:: | :: ''but'' {{xt|The witness said the assailant was about 5 feet 8 inches tall}} ("about" because here the precise value is unknown, with substantial uncertainty) | ||
* The reader may be assumed to interpret large round numbers ({{xt|100,000 troops}}) as approximations. Writing a quantity in words ({{xt|one hundred thousand troops}}) can further emphasize its approximate nature. | * The reader may be assumed to interpret large round numbers ({{xt|100,000 troops}}) as approximations. Writing a quantity in words ({{xt|one hundred thousand troops}}) can further emphasize its approximate nature. | ||
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===Unit names and symbols=== | ===Unit names and symbols=== | ||
: | :''Definitions:'' | ||
:* Examples of '''unit names''': foot, meter, kilometer. | :* Examples of '''unit names''': foot, meter, kilometer. | ||
:* Examples of '''unit symbols''': ft, m, km. | :* Examples of '''unit symbols''': ft, m, km. | ||
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* Where space is limited, such as in tables, infoboxes, parenthetical notes, and mathematical formulas, unit symbols are preferred. | * Where space is limited, such as in tables, infoboxes, parenthetical notes, and mathematical formulas, unit symbols are preferred. | ||
* Units unfamiliar to general readers should be presented as a name{{ndash}}symbol pair on first use, linking the unit name ({{xt|Energies were originally 2.3 [[Wikipedia:Megaelectronvolts|megaelectronvolts]] (MeV), but were eventually 6{{nbsp}}MeV}}). | * Units unfamiliar to general readers should be presented as a name{{ndash}}symbol pair on first use, linking the unit name ({{xt|Energies were originally 2.3 [[Wikipedia:Megaelectronvolts|megaelectronvolts]] (MeV), but were eventually 6{{nbsp}}MeV}}). | ||
* Ranges use unspaced en dash ({{tl|ndash}}) if only one unit symbol is used at the end (e.g. {{xt|5.9{{ndash}}6.3{{nbsp}}kg}}), and spaced en dash ({{tl|snd}}) if two symbols are used (e.g. {{xt|3{{nbsp}}μm | * Ranges use unspaced en dash ({{tl|ndash}}) if only one unit symbol is used at the end (e.g. {{xt|5.9{{ndash}}6.3{{nbsp}}kg}}), and spaced en dash ({{tl|snd}}) if two symbols are used (e.g. {{xt|3{{nbsp}}μm - 1{{nbsp}}mm}}); ranges | ||
in prose may be specified using either unit symbol or unit names, and units may be stated either after both numerical values or after the last (e.g. {{xt|from 5.9 to 6.3 kilograms}}, {{xt|from 5.9 kilograms to 6.3 kilograms}}, {{xt|from 5.9 to 6.3{{nbsp}}kg}} and {{xt|from 5.9{{nbsp}}kg to 6.3{{nbsp}}kg}} are all acceptable). | |||
* Length{{ndash}}width, length{{ndash}}width{{ndash}}height and similar dimensions may be separated by the multiplication sign (<code>×</code> or <code>&times;</code>) or the word '''by'''. | * Length{{ndash}}width, length{{ndash}}width{{ndash}}height and similar dimensions may be separated by the multiplication sign (<code>×</code> or <code>&times;</code>) or the word '''by'''. | ||
** With the multiplication sign, each number should be followed by a unit name or symbol (if appropriate): | ** With the multiplication sign, each number should be followed by a unit name or symbol (if appropriate): | ||
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|- | |- | ||
|rowspan=6|'''Unit names and symbols''' | |rowspan=6|'''Unit names and symbols''' | ||
|Unit | |Unit ''symbols'' are uncapi­tal­ized unless they are derived from a proper name, in which case the first letter (of the base unit symbol, not of any prefix) is capitalized.<ref>These definitions are consistent with all units of measure mentioned in the SI Brochure ''(see previous footnote)'' and with all units of measure catalogued in [[Wikipedia:European units of measurement directives|EU directive 80/181/EEC]] [http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?qid=1397640809938&uri=CELEX:01980L0181-20090527].</ref> | ||
| {{ xt|8 kg}}<br/>{{ xt|100 kPa}} | | {{ xt|8 kg}}<br/>{{ xt|100 kPa}} | ||
| {{!xt|8 Kg}}<br/>{{!xt|100 kpa}} | | {{!xt|8 Kg}}<br/>{{!xt|100 kpa}} | ||
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|{{!xt|38 cm<big>.</big> of rope}} | |{{!xt|38 cm<big>.</big> of rope}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|Unit | |Unit ''names'' are given in lower case except: where any word would be capital­ized, or where otherwise specified in the SI brochure or this Manual of Style. | ||
| | | | ||
* {{xt|He walked several miles.}}<br> | * {{xt|He walked several miles.}}<br> | ||
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|rowspan=2 | Write unit names and symbols in upright ([[Wikipedia:Roman type|roman]]) type, except where emphasizing in context. | |rowspan=2 | Write unit names and symbols in upright ([[Wikipedia:Roman type|roman]]) type, except where emphasizing in context. | ||
| {{ xt|10{{nbsp}}m}}<br/>{{ xt|29 kilograms}} | | {{ xt|10{{nbsp}}m}}<br/>{{ xt|29 kilograms}} | ||
| {{!xt|10{{nbsp}} | | {{!xt|10{{nbsp}}''m''}}<br/>{{!xt|29 ''kilograms''}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
| {{ xt|Thus each two-liter jug contained only two | | {{ xt|Thus each two-liter jug contained only two ''quarts''.}} | ||
| | | | ||
|- | |- | ||
|rowspan=8|'''Numeric values'''<!-- WARNING! ADJUST ROWSPAN WHEN ADDING/REMOVING ROWS FROM A GROUP OF RULES --> | |rowspan=8|'''Numeric values'''<!-- WARNING! ADJUST ROWSPAN WHEN ADDING/REMOVING ROWS FROM A GROUP OF RULES --> | ||
|Do not spell out numbers before unit | |Do not spell out numbers before unit ''symbols''{{nbsp}}... | ||
|{{ xt|12{{nbsp}}min}} | |{{ xt|12{{nbsp}}min}} | ||
|{{!xt|twelve{{nbsp}}min}} | |{{!xt|twelve{{nbsp}}min}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|...{{nbsp}}but words | |...{{nbsp}}but words ''or'' figures may be used with unit ''names''. | ||
| | | | ||
* {{xt|twelve minutes}} | * {{xt|twelve minutes}} | ||
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| {{!xt|Set the pointer to five.}} | | {{!xt|Set the pointer to five.}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
| Use a nonbreaking space ({{t|nbsp}} or <code>&nbsp;</code>) between a number and a unit | | Use a nonbreaking space ({{t|nbsp}} or <code>&nbsp;</code>) between a number and a unit ''symbol'',{{nbsp}}... | ||
| {{xt|29{{nbsp}}kg}}<br/>(markup: <code>29&nbsp;kg</code> or <code><nowiki>29 kg</nowiki></code>) | | {{xt|29{{nbsp}}kg}}<br/>(markup: <code>29&nbsp;kg</code> or <code><nowiki>29 kg</nowiki></code>) | ||
| style="vertical-align: top"| {{!xt|29kg}} | | style="vertical-align: top"| {{!xt|29kg}} | ||
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| {{!xt|23{{nbsp}}°}} {{!xt|47{{nbsp}}′}} {{!xt|22{{nbsp}}″}} | | {{!xt|23{{nbsp}}°}} {{!xt|47{{nbsp}}′}} {{!xt|22{{nbsp}}″}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
| ... a normal space is used between a number and a unit | | ... a normal space is used between a number and a unit ''name''. | ||
| {{xt|29{{nbsp}}kilograms}}<br/>(markup: <code>29 kilograms</code>) | | {{xt|29{{nbsp}}kilograms}}<br/>(markup: <code>29 kilograms</code>) | ||
| | | | ||
|- | |- | ||
|To form a value and a unit | |To form a value and a unit ''name'' into a compound adjective use a hyphen or hyphens{{nbsp}}... | ||
| | | | ||
* {{xt|a five-day holiday}} | * {{xt|a five-day holiday}} | ||
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| | | | ||
|- | |- | ||
|... but a non-breaking space (never hyphen) separates a value and unit | |... but a non-breaking space (never hyphen) separates a value and unit ''symbol''. | ||
| | | | ||
* {{xt|a blade 10 cm long}} | * {{xt|a blade 10 cm long}} | ||
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|- | |- | ||
|rowspan=5| '''Plurals'''<!-- WARNING! ADJUST ROWSPAN WHEN ADDING/REMOVING ROWS FROM A GROUP OF RULES --> | |rowspan=5| '''Plurals'''<!-- WARNING! ADJUST ROWSPAN WHEN ADDING/REMOVING ROWS FROM A GROUP OF RULES --> | ||
|[[Wikipedia:International System of Units|SI]] unit | |[[Wikipedia:International System of Units|SI]] unit ''names'' are pluralized by adding the appropriate {{xt|-s}} or {{xt|-es}} suffix{{nbsp}}... | ||
|{{ xt|1 ohm}}; {{xt|10 ohms}} | |{{ xt|1 ohm}}; {{xt|10 ohms}} | ||
| | | | ||
| Line 449: | Line 453: | ||
| {{!xt|10 stratums}} | | {{!xt|10 stratums}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|Unit | |Unit ''symbols'' (in any system) are identical in singular and plural. | ||
| | | | ||
* {{xt|grew from 1 in to 2 in}} | * {{xt|grew from 1 in to 2 in}} | ||
| Line 461: | Line 465: | ||
|{{!xt|km²}}<br/>(<code><s>km&#178;</s></code>) | |{{!xt|km²}}<br/>(<code><s>km&#178;</s></code>) | ||
|- | |- | ||
|Or use '''squared''' or '''cubed''' ( | |Or use '''squared''' or '''cubed''' (''after'' the unit being modified). | ||
|rowspan=2|{{xt|ten metres per second squared}} | |rowspan=2|{{xt|ten metres per second squared}} | ||
|{{!xt|ten metres per squared second}} | |{{!xt|ten metres per squared second}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|rowspan=2| For areas or volumes only, '''square''' or '''cubic''' may be used ( | |rowspan=2| For areas or volumes only, '''square''' or '''cubic''' may be used (''before'' the unit being modified). | ||
|{{!xt|ten metres per square second}} | |{{!xt|ten metres per square second}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
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|- | |- | ||
|rowspan=4|'''Products'''<!-- WARNING! ADJUST ROWSPAN WHEN ADDING/REMOVING ROWS FROM A GROUP OF RULES --> | |rowspan=4|'''Products'''<!-- WARNING! ADJUST ROWSPAN WHEN ADDING/REMOVING ROWS FROM A GROUP OF RULES --> | ||
|Indicate a product of unit | |Indicate a product of unit ''names'' with either a hyphen or a space. | ||
| | | | ||
* {{xt|foot-pound}} | * {{xt|foot-pound}} | ||
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* {{!xt|foot·pound}} | * {{!xt|foot·pound}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|Indicate a product of unit | |Indicate a product of unit ''symbols'' with <code>&[[Wikipedia:middle dot|middot]];</code> or <code>&[[Wikipedia:non-breaking space|nbsp]];</code> | ||
| | | | ||
* {{xt|ms}} = millisecond | * {{xt|ms}} = millisecond | ||
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| | | | ||
|- | |- | ||
| | |''Exception:'' In some topic areas such as power engineer­ing, certain products take neither space nor <code>&middot;</code>. Follow the practice of reliable sources in the article's topic area. | ||
| | | | ||
* [[Wikipedia:watt hour|{{xt|Wh}}]], [[Wikipedia:volt ampere|{{xt|VA}}]], [[Wikipedia:ampere hour|{{xt|Ah}}]] | * [[Wikipedia:watt hour|{{xt|Wh}}]], [[Wikipedia:volt ampere|{{xt|VA}}]], [[Wikipedia:ampere hour|{{xt|Ah}}]] | ||
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| | | | ||
|- | |- | ||
|To pluralize a product of unit | |To pluralize a product of unit ''names'', pluralize only the final unit. (Unit ''symbols'' are never pluralized.) | ||
|{{xt|ten foot-pounds}} | |{{xt|ten foot-pounds}} | ||
|{{!xt|ten feet-pounds}} | |{{!xt|ten feet-pounds}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|rowspan=7|'''Ratios,<br />Rates,<br />Densities'''<!-- WARNING! ADJUST ROWSPAN WHEN ADDING/REMOVING ROWS FROM A GROUP OF RULES --> | |rowspan=7|'''Ratios,<br />Rates,<br />Densities'''<!-- WARNING! ADJUST ROWSPAN WHEN ADDING/REMOVING ROWS FROM A GROUP OF RULES --> | ||
|Indicate a ratio of unit | |Indicate a ratio of unit ''names'' with '''per'''. | ||
|{{ xt|meter per second}} | |{{ xt|meter per second}} | ||
|{{!xt|meter/second}} | |{{!xt|meter/second}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|rowspan=2|Indicate a ratio of unit | |rowspan=2|Indicate a ratio of unit ''symbols'' with a forward slash (<code>/</code>), followed by either a single symbol or a parenthesized product of symbols - do not use multiple slashes. Or use{{nbsp}}<sup>−1</sup>,{{nbsp}}<sup>−2</sup>, etc. | ||
| | | | ||
* {{xt|metre per second}} | * {{xt|metre per second}} | ||
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* {{!xt|kg/m/s}} | * {{!xt|kg/m/s}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
|To pluralize a ratio of unit | |To pluralize a ratio of unit ''names'', pluralize only the numerator unit. (Unit ''symbols'' are never pluralized.) | ||
| | | | ||
* {{xt|ten newton-metres per second}} | * {{xt|ten newton-metres per second}} | ||
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|{{!xt|1 hectometre}} | |{{!xt|1 hectometre}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
| Do not use [[wikt:M#Number|{{!xt|M}}]] for 10<sup>3</sup>, {{!xt|MM}} for 10<sup>6</sup>, or {{!xt|B}} for 10<sup>9</sup> (except as noted elsewhere on this page for '''M''' and '''B''', e.g. [[#Currencies and monetary values|for monetary values]]) | | Do not use [[wikt:M#Number|{{!xt|M}}]] | ||
for 10<sup>3</sup>, {{!xt|MM}} for 10<sup>6</sup>, or {{!xt|B}} for 10<sup>9</sup> (except as noted elsewhere on this page for '''M''' and '''B''', e.g. [[#Currencies and monetary values|for monetary values]]) | |||
| {{xt|3 km}}<br/>{{ xt|8 MW}}<br/>{{ xt|125 GeV}} | | {{xt|3 km}}<br/>{{ xt|8 MW}}<br/>{{ xt|125 GeV}} | ||
| {{!xt|3 Mm}}<br/>{{!xt|8 MMW}}<br/>{{!xt|125 BeV}} | | {{!xt|3 Mm}}<br/>{{!xt|8 MMW}}<br/>{{!xt|125 BeV}} | ||
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===Currency symbols=== | ===Currency symbols=== | ||
* In general, the first mention of a particular currency should use its full, unambiguous signifier (e.g. {{xt|A$52}}), with subsequent references using just the appropriate symbol (e.g. {{xt|$88}}), unless this would be unclear. | * In general, the first mention of a particular currency should use its full, unambiguous signifier (e.g. {{xt|A$52}}), with subsequent references using just the appropriate symbol (e.g. {{xt|$88}}), unless this would be unclear. ''Exceptions:'' | ||
:* In an article referring to multiple currencies represented by the same symbol (e.g. the dollars of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries | :* In an article referring to multiple currencies represented by the same symbol (e.g. the dollars of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries - ''see [[Wikipedia:Currency symbols#dollar variants|Wikipedia:Dollar variants'') use the full signifier (e.g. {{xt|US$}}, {{xt|A$}}) each time, except (possibly) where a particular context makes this both unnecessary and undesirable. | ||
:* In articles entirely on EU-, UK- and/or US-related topics, all occurrences may be shortened ({{xt|€26}}, {{xt|£22}} or {{xt|$34}}), unless this would be unclear. | :* In articles entirely on EU-, UK- and/or US-related topics, all occurrences may be shortened ({{xt|€26}}, {{xt|£22}} or {{xt|$34}}), unless this would be unclear. | ||
* The [[Wikipedia:Pound sterling|pound sterling]] is represented by the {{xt|£}} symbol, with one horizontal bar. The double-barred {{!xt|₤}} symbol is ambiguous, as it has also been used for the [[Wikipedia:Italian lira|Italian lira]] and other currencies. For non-British currencies that use pounds or a pound symbol (e.g. the [[Wikipedia:Irish pound|Irish pound]], IR£) use the symbol conventionally preferred for that currency. | * The [[Wikipedia:Pound sterling|pound sterling]] is represented by the {{xt|£}} symbol, with one horizontal bar. The double-barred {{!xt|₤}} symbol is ambiguous, as it has also been used for the [[Wikipedia:Italian lira|Italian lira]] and other currencies. For non-British currencies that use pounds or a pound symbol (e.g. the [[Wikipedia:Irish pound|Irish pound]], IR£) use the symbol conventionally preferred for that currency. | ||
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===Formatting=== | ===Formatting=== | ||
* A period (full stop, <code>.</code>) is used as the decimal point | * A period (full stop, <code>.</code>) is used as the decimal point - never a comma ({{xt|$6.57}}, not {{!xt|$6,57}}). | ||
* ''For the grouping of digits (e.g. {{xt|£1,234,567}}) see {{section link||Grouping of digits}}, above.'' | * ''For the grouping of digits (e.g. {{xt|£1,234,567}}) see {{section link||Grouping of digits}}, above.'' | ||
* Do not place a currency symbol | * Do not place a currency symbol ''after'' the accompanying numeric figures (e.g. {{!xt|123$}}, {{!xt|123£}}, {{!xt|123€}}) unless that is the normal convention for that symbol when writing in English: {{xt|smaller British coins include 1p, 2p, and 5p denominations}}. Never use forms such as {{!xt|$US123}} or {{!xt|$123 (US)}}. | ||
* Currency abbreviations that come before the numeric value are | * Currency abbreviations that come before the numeric value are ''unspaced'' if they consist of a nonalphabetic symbol only, or end in a symbol ({{xt|£123}};{{nbsp}}{{nbsp}} {{xt|€123}}); but ''spaced'' | ||
if alphabetic ({{xt|R{{nbsp}}75}}). | |||
* Ranges should be expressed giving the currency signifier just once: {{xt|$250{{ndash}}300}}, not {{!xt|$250{{ndash}}$300}}. | * Ranges should be expressed giving the currency signifier just once: {{xt|$250{{ndash}}300}}, not {{!xt|$250{{ndash}}$300}}. | ||
* {{xt|million}} and {{xt|billion}} should be spelled out on first use, and (optionally) abbreviated {{xt|M}} or {{xt|bn}} (both unspaced) thereafter: {{xt|She received £70 million and her son £10M}}; {{xt|the school's share was $250{{ndash}}300 million, and the charity's $400{{ndash}}450M}}. | * {{xt|million}} and {{xt|billion}} should be spelled out on first use, and (optionally) abbreviated {{xt|M}} or {{xt|bn}} (both unspaced) thereafter: {{xt|She received £70 million and her son £10M}}; {{xt|the school's share was $250{{ndash}}300 million, and the charity's $400{{ndash}}450M}}. | ||
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===Conversions=== | ===Conversions=== | ||
* Conversions of | * Conversions of ''less-familiar currencies'' may be provided in terms of more familiar currencies - such as the US dollar, euro or pound sterling - using an appropriate rate (which is often ''not'' the current exchange rate). Conversions should be in parentheses after the original currency, rounding to avoid [[Wikipedia:False precision|false precision]] (two significant digits is usually sufficient, as most exchange rates fluctuate significantly), with at least the year given as a rough point of conversion rate reference; e.g. {{xt|Since 2001 the grant has been 10,000,000 [[Wikipedia:Swedish krona|Swedish kronor]] ($1.4M, €1.0M, or £800k, not {{!xt|($1,390,570, €971,673 or £848,646)}}. | ||
* For | * For ''obsolete currencies'', provide an equivalent (formatted as a conversion) if possible, in the modern replacement currency (e.g. decimal pounds for historical pre-decimal pounds-and-shillings), or a US-dollar equivalent where there is no modern equivalent. | ||
* In some cases it may be appropriate to provide a conversion accounting for inflation or deflation over time. | * In some cases it may be appropriate to provide a conversion accounting for inflation or deflation over time. | ||
==Common mathematical symbols== | ==Common mathematical symbols== | ||
* The ''Insert'' menu below the editing window gives a more complete list of math symbols, and allows symbols to be inserted without the HTML encoding (e.g. <code>&divide;</code>) shown here. | * The ''Insert'' menu below the editing window gives a more complete list of math symbols, and allows symbols to be inserted without the HTML encoding (e.g. <code>&divide;</code>) shown here. | ||
| Line 701: | Line 706: | ||
| <var>x</var> × <var>y</var> | | <var>x</var> × <var>y</var> | ||
| <code><nowiki><var>x</var> &times; <var>y</var></nowiki></code> | | <code><nowiki><var>x</var> &times; <var>y</var></nowiki></code> | ||
| Do not use the letter {{!xt|x}} to indicate multiplication. However, an | | Do not use the letter {{!xt|x}} to indicate multiplication. However, an ''unspaced'' {{xt|x}} may be used as a substitute for "by" in common terms such as [[Wikipedia:4x4|{{xt|4x4}}]]. | ||
|- | |- | ||
| [[Wikipedia:Division sign|Division]], obelus | | [[Wikipedia:Division sign|Division]], obelus | ||
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