Introduction
There has been plenty of debate amongst writers and editors on the appropriate location of the money sign in financial writing. It may seem like a minor issue, but correct placement can make a significant difference in readability and clarity. In this article, we will explore both sides of the debate and provide a comprehensive guide on the appropriate placement of the money sign.
The Great Money Sign Debate: Putting it Before or After the Amount?
The two primary schools of thought on the placement of the money sign are whether to place it before or after the numeral. Some argue that placing the money sign before the numeral ensures it is not forgotten or missed, while others maintain that using it after the number is more logical, as it prevents confusion with other currency symbols. However, each side provides valid arguments, and ultimately, it is up to your preference and writing style.
Those who advocate for placing the money sign in front of the numeral believe that it is better to have it right away instead of searching for it at the end of a long number. For example, “$2,000” is much easier to parse than “2,000$.” It’s also less likely to be overlooked by your reader when it’s in the beginning.
The group that argues for placing the money sign after the figure emphasizes that writing the money sign after the value is more logical and follows many other international currency formats. They contend that the numeral should appear first because they are what matter the most and the readers’ attention should go to it. The Euro sign or the Sterling Pound sign follows the same logic as they all are written after the numeral.
Money Sign Placement: What Do the Experts Say?
Financial writing experts and authorities provide guidance on using consistent and correct financial writing standards. According to the Chicago Manual of Style, “The currency symbol precedes the numeral”. The Associated Press Stylebook has the opposite view that position before or after the amount is acceptable, provided it is used consistently.
Alice P. Gast, an editor at The Washington Times, also prefers placing the money sign before the numeral. She claims: “It’s easier for readers to recognise exactly what numbers on a page represent when the currency symbols precede them.”
Breaking Down the Confusion: When to Place the Money Sign in Front of the Amount
While both positions have advantages, the most important objective is consistency and clarity. To ensure readability in your writing, it’s essential to establish a rule that follows your preferred method and stick to it throughout the text. Making exceptions can be confusing for your readers and diminish the credibility of your writing.
In addition to that, there are specific guidelines that we should follow for placing the money sign even where we put it on writing financial documents. For example, invoices, bills, and contracts typically place the money sign in front of the amount.
The Proper Etiquette of Writing Financial Figures: Money Sign First or Last?
When it comes to financial writing, following proper etiquette is vital to ensure clarity and consistency. Placing the money sign first or last is one of the major areas through which you can improve the readability of financial figures and professional writing standards.
– Pros of placing the money symbol at the front include:
- It is the traditional format and the most recognised
- It reinforces the currency value in the reader’s mind.
- It provides a sharp visual distinction for the new currency unit.
– Cons of placing the money symbol at the front include:
- It can be seen as cumbersome to the reader.
- It can be confusing where space is limited.
– Pros of placing the money symbol at the end include:
- The amount is more legible as the lengths of numbers can vary.
- It is more commonly used in international settings
- It is easier for the reader to comprehend as they always see the value first
– Cons of placing the money symbol at the end include:
- It can be confusing to the reader if no space is provided.
- It is a more modern way of writing but is less commonly used.
To Put the Money Sign First or Last? A Comprehensive Guide to Proper Writing Format
Here are some guidelines for establishing a standardized protocol in writing financial figures:
- To have consistency in your writing, the money sign should be in the same location throughout the document.
- When there is a lack of space, you can put the money symbol at the end of the value.
- Always use the same currency unit to avoid confusion.
- When indicating a percentage, the sign goes after the numeral.
- Always put a space between the currency sign and the numeral. For example, AUD 20, EUR 10, and so on.
Conclusion
While there is no single right place to put the money sign, it is essential to adopt a consistent standard to improve readability and clarity. When it comes to financial writing, you should take the time to make the right impression by paying attention to writing details. The expert recommendations are essential guides to follow, but it is up to you to select the preferred position based on your writing style, audience expectations, and consistent writing practices. Finally, write with the reader in mind and choose the placement that makes your copy clear and easy to read.
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