EARLY BLACK FRIDAY: 20% off writing packages using promo code "BF20" (expires November 30)

Resume Pilots

Expert Tip: When to Spell Out Numbers on a Resume

how to write 1 million in resume

Should You Write Out Numbers on Your Resume or Use Numerals?

When crafting your resume, focusing on achievement-based bullet points is essential. By quantifying your results with numbers, you enhance your credibility and make a strong impression on recruiters.

However, it's equally important to adhere to proper grammar rules regarding number usage.

In this article, we’ll explore the standard grammar conventions for writing numbers and provide best practices for their use on resumes.

Standard Grammar Rules for Writing Numbers

Standard guidelines.

According to both the AP Stylebook  and The Business Style Handbook , the following rules apply when writing out numbers:

  • Numbers under 10: Spell out (two, six, eight)
  • Numbers 10 and above: Use numerals (10, 55, 150)

Exceptions to the Rule

There are specific instances where you should always use numerals, including:

  • Ages (4 years old)
  • Building numbers (5 East Erie)
  • Headlines (Developer Builds 5 New Hotels)
  • Figures with decimals (6.2 feet)
  • Percentages (12% increase)
  • Measurements (185 lbs.)
  • Money ($3M increase in revenue)
  • Time of day (5 p.m.)
  • Figures in a series (5 direct reports, 150 employees, and 30 contractors)

Resume Best Practices for Writing Numbers

On your resume, it’s acceptable to diverge from standard grammar rules and use numerals for numbers 1 through 9 for 2 main reasons:

1) Save space

Because you have limited space on your resume, using the number “5” instead of writing out “five” can save you just enough space to keep a bullet point from spilling onto the next line – especially if you need to squeeze in multiple numbers.

2) Help your accomplishments “pop”

Using numbers can also help your accomplishments stand out.

When you have multiple bullet points that consist primarily of text, numbers under 10 can easily blend into the rest of the content.

For example, compare the following two bullet points:

  • Completed 8 feasibility studies, resulting in 2 new hotel openings
  • Completed eight feasibility studies, resulting in two new hotel openings

It’s easy to see how the structure of the first bullet point makes the numbers more prominent.

Consistency is Key

Regardless of your approach, maintaining consistency throughout your resume is crucial.

If you choose to follow traditional grammar rules by spelling out numbers under 10, ensure this format is used throughout the document.

Alternatively, if you decide to use numerals consistently, stick with that choice.

If you are preparing a resume for an academic context, however, we advise sticking to convention.

By following the guidelines above and sticking to one approach throughout your document, you can be sure to avoid any red flags.

To create a resume that impresses recruiters , be sure to incorporate metrics and KPIs into your bullet points.

Such an approach will ensure your resume is accomplishment driven and doesn't simply list the tasks you were responsible for day-to-day.

Considering working with an executive resume writer? Schedule a call here to learn how we can help accelerate your job search.

About resume pilots.

Resume Pilots is an award-winning executive resume writing firm and a proud member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches. Our previous clients include CEOs and senior executives at the world's leading companies.

As a professional services firm, we take your reputation seriously. We are committed to delivering writing excellence and superior service while operating with integrity and discretion. Recruitment firms we partner with also trust us to consistently deliver quality documents for their clients.

Our writers have studied in the Ivy League and other top-tier universities and have strong writing backgrounds coupled with industry experience.

Here's how we can help you:

Resume, Cover Letter, and LinkedIn Writing Services : If you are looking for end-to-end support, hire one of our professional resume writers to rewrite your documents from the ground up.

Executive Resume Template Downloads : If you plan to prepare your own resume, consider using one of our classic, ATS-friendly resume templates for Microsoft Word.

To learn more about our services, book an introductory call with our founder here or email [email protected] .

  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share on Google
  • Share on Pinterest

how to write 1 million in resume

About the Author Matt Glodz

Matt Glodz is the Founder and Managing Partner of Resume Pilots and a Certified Professional Resume Writer. After studying business communication at Cornell University, Matt worked within Fortune 500 companies, where he noted that qualified candidates were frequently denied interview opportunities due to poorly written documents. At Resume Pilots, Matt combines his business and writing background - which includes prior work for a Chicago Tribune publication - to craft resumes that give his clients the best chance of landing interviews. He works with clients ranging from CEOs to recent graduates and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. He has been quoted on numerous business and career-related topics in outlets including Business Insider, CNBC, Fortune, Glassdoor, The Ladders, and Thrive Global.

Related Articles

6 linkedin headshot mistakes to avoid in 2024 & how to choose yours, executive-level resume templates 2024: downloads, why executive resume writers don’t use ai or chatgpt.

how to write 1 million in resume

IMAGES

  1. How To Abbreviate Million, Billion and Thousands on a Resume

    how to write 1 million in resume

  2. How To Write A One Million Dollar Resume

    how to write 1 million in resume

  3. How To Write Million Dollars In Resume

    how to write 1 million in resume

  4. How To Write Million Dollars In Resume

    how to write 1 million in resume

  5. How To Format a Two-Page Resume (And When You Actually Need One)

    how to write 1 million in resume

  6. How To Write an Impressive Resume With Only One Job

    how to write 1 million in resume

VIDEO

  1. Resume Revolution: Writing Tips and AI Tricks that Elevate Your Resume (plus ChatGPT tutorial)

  2. How to Turn $5 into $1 MILLION in 12 Months (Step-By-Step Plan)

  3. Write an Incredible Resume: 5 Golden Rules! ✨💼

  4. How To Write a Resume in 5 Minutes (Google Gemini)

  5. How to write the best resume and cover letter using AI !

  6. Easy Formula to Write Career Objective in Resume