Expert: Deena Madnick - 5/3/2007

Question
Hello,
I have a question about the best way to punctuate number ranges in formal (business) writing. For example, is it better to say:
1) We are expecting 12 to 14 people.
or
2) We are expecting 12-14 people.

Any other guidelines for including ranges in business writing would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

Answer
Thank you, Meredith, for your question on expressing a number range such as 12 to 14 (people) or 12-14 (people).

According to The Chicago Manual of Style, 15th edition, Section 9.62, using “the en dash [the short dash] between two numbers implies up to and including, or through.”

         Example: Read pages 12-42.


According to the same reference book, also known as the CMS, according to Section 9.63, if you use “from” before the first in a pair of numbers, use “to” between the two numbers.  

         Example: from 18 to 35       
            

If you use “between” before the first in a pair of numbers, use “and” between the two numbers.

         Example: between 1980 and 2001


In the example you gave in your question, use "We are expecting 12-14 people."


I hope that helps.

Sincerely,
Deena Madnick
Copywrite Technical Writing & Editorial Services
Worcester, MA
USA