How to Write Numbers in Words on a CV and Job Application
A CV is read in seconds, and small number mistakes stand out. Writing numbers in words, in the right places, makes a CV look careful and professional. It also avoids confusion when a recruiter reads figures aloud or scans a printed copy. Start with a simple rule. Use figures for most measurements, dates, and statistics, and use words when a number begins a sentence or when you want it to carry…
When crafting a CV or job application, the way numbers are presented can greatly affect its perceived professionalism and clarity. The key is to follow a consistent approach that balances readability and precision.
For most measurements, dates, and statistics, figures should be used. For instance, "Led a team of twelve" reads more naturally than "Led a team of 12" at the beginning of a bullet point. Similarly, "Increased sales by 23%" is clearer than spelling out the percentage. This rule applies across the document, ensuring a uniform style throughout.
Numbers of experience, such as years of service, benefit from being spelled out. "Five years of customer service experience" carries an air of confidence and is straightforward to read. The same principle applies to smaller counts, like "Managed three assistants" and "Trained eight new starters," which flow well in words.
In contrast, larger or exact figures perform better as numerals, particularly in results sections. "Cut processing time by 35%" and "Handled 120 calls a day" are more comprehensible with figures. Financial information requires careful handling. While salaries are seldom disclosed on a CV, budgets, targets, or funds raised might be mentioned. In such cases, write the numeral first, followed by the spelled-out version if necessary, like "£2,500 (two thousand five hundred pounds)."
Never rely solely on words for monetary amounts in formal documents, as a single misspelled word can alter the intended meaning. Double-check every zero, as the difference between "15,000" and "150,000" is only one digit, but changes to "fifteen thousand" versus "one hundred and fifty thousand" in word form.
Dates and times follow the same guidelines. Opt for "June 2021 to March 2024" instead of spelling out the months and years. Ensure date formats remain consistent across all roles documented. For qualifications, spell out grades when integrated into a sentence ("Grade A in English") and employ figures for scores and percentages.
If an amount appears complex or ambiguous, a free online converter can verify its written form, ensuring accuracy. Ultimately, reading the CV aloud can reveal awkward phrasing. Sentences that sound off when spoken should be revised. Numbers that are effortless to articulate are typically easy to comprehend when written, and a CV that reads smoothly enhances the recruiter's experience, offering fewer reasons to disengage.
Maintain numerals for data-driven points, use words for emphasis, and uphold a consistent style, allowing your numbers to complement your professional experience without causing distraction.
Written by urgent.news from Dev.to's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
