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APA Citation 7th Edition

Numbers

When it comes to writing numbers, the general rule of thumb is to use numerals to express numbers 10 and above, while words are used to express numbers below 10. For example:

  • There were 13 students in the computer lab.
  • The study had 50 participants.
  • Only five guests attended the party. 

You may have to consider on a case-by-case basis if an exception to the rule applies. For more details, consult the APA Style page on expressing numbers. Sections 6.32 and 6.33 of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association cover how to express numbers.