Editing Tip(s) of the Day

Here are a few quick tips.

• Spell out numbers from one to nine and use numerals for all higher numbers. However, spell out a number at the beginning of a sentence.


• Use commas with numbers in the thousands (e.g. 1,325).


• Ages expressed as an adjective before a noun use hyphens (e.g. They have a 6-year-old daughter).


• Capitalize the word “state” only in formal reference to the state as a legal institution (e.g. the State of Michigan; the state legislature; the State Assembly; We work for the state).


• Use “backward,” not “backwards;” “toward,” not “towards;” “forward,” not “forwards.”

Here is one reference: www.pvamu.edu/files/institutional_relations_public_service/ProofreadingTipSheet.pdf