Which instruction relates to formatting numbers after nouns such as page?

Which instruction relates to formatting numbers after nouns such as page?

• A. Express as numerals for all numbers.
• B. Express as words numbers following nouns such as page.
• C. Use digits only in tables.
• D. Spell out numbers only if larger than ten.

Answer: (B)

When a number comes after a noun, the flow of the sentence is improved by spelling out the number. So in a phrase like “page seven,” the number is written in words rather than as a digit, which keeps the sentence smooth and readable in running text. This approach aligns with how prose is usually treated: small numbers spelled out after common nouns avoid interrupting the rhythm of the sentence, while digits tend to stand out more and feel more abrupt. The other possibilities push digits after the noun or apply a rule that isn’t typical for this context, which would disrupt readability or misstate common practice.

When a number comes after a noun, the flow of the sentence is improved by spelling out the number. So in a phrase like “page seven,” the number is written in words rather than as a digit, which keeps the sentence smooth and readable in running text.

This approach aligns with how prose is usually treated: small numbers spelled out after common nouns avoid interrupting the rhythm of the sentence, while digits tend to stand out more and feel more abrupt. The other possibilities push digits after the noun or apply a rule that isn’t typical for this context, which would disrupt readability or misstate common practice.