Numbers or #s?

I’ve discovered lately that there are several standards when it comes to putting numbers in a written piece. Many rules. Many different takes on those rules. It got to the point where I was pulling out thee old hair. Yikes!

So, I did what any writer would do. I asked my friends over on AQ. Then I went to an agent. The best answer? (Or at least the answer that relaxed me and allowed me to cease pulling out my hair….) The one I got from super agent Daphne Unfeasible(aka Kate Schafer Testerman):

“You know, there may be a Strunk and White-esque standard, but here’s my thoughts. In dialogue, feel free to use 288 rather than spelling it all out. If we’re talking about using a number in narrative, consider the voice you’re using. An omniscient narrator may spell out the whole number, but if your 16-year-old protagonist is also the narrator, then again, I think 288 is fine.

Honestly? Go with what looks good and feels right to you. I think little details like this are for the copy editor to correct if need be.”

So there you have it. Follow the rules but bend them when it feels right or the situation deems it appropriate. A big thanks to Daphne Unfeasible! You rock!