Certain symbols are standardized—number symbols (the digits, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9); letter symbols (the letters of the alphabet, a, b, c, d, etc.); and graphic symbols (the mathematical signs +, -, ±, x, ÷).
The signs +, -, ±, x, and ÷, etc., are closed against accompanying figures and symbols. When the x is used to indicate "crossed with" (in plant or animal breeding) or magnification, it will be separated from the accompanying words by a space.
- i-vii + 1-288 pages
- Early June × Bright (crossed with)
- × 4 (magnification)
- The equation A+B
- The result is 4x4
- miles ÷ gallons
- 20,000±5,000
Following a figure, the spelled form is preferred. The percent symbol is used in areas where space will not allow the word percent to be used.
- In that period the price rose 12, 15, and 19 percent.
not In that period the price rose 12 percent, 15 percent, and 19 percent.
Any symbol set close up to figures, such as the degree mark, number mark, dollar mark, or cent mark, is used before or after each figure in a group or series.
- $5 to $8 price range
- 5'-7' long, not 5-7' long
- 3₵ to 5₵ (no spaces)
- ±2 to ±7; 2°±1°
- 61 to #64
- but
- § 12 (thin space)
- ❡1951 (thin space)
- from 15 to 25 percent
- 45 to 65 °F not 45° to 65° F
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