Learn Good Business Writing and Communication (Collection)

Numbering Systems

Numbering systems are used with outlines, tables of contents, and headings to display a document’s organization and allow readers easy access to parts of the document. The two basic numbering systems are the traditional outline system and the decimal system. See OUTLINES and TABLES OF CONTENTS.

Traditional System

Traditional outlines use the following numbering and lettering conventions:

Decimal System

In the decimal system, successive dots or periods indicate levels of subordination:

Note: The title “Decimal System” is a handy ...