I was wondering when it came to numbers and rules if they're put in as symbols or written out. In the work, the rule I'm using isn't an official rule, it's just a jokey part of dialogue so I didn't think it needed capitals. Could anyone tell me which of these versions is the correct one: 1) ... follow Rule Number Four: don't die 2) ... follow rule number four: don't die 3) ... follow rule number 4: don't die 4) ... follow Rule Number 4: don't die 5) ... follow rule 4: don't die 6) ... follow Rule 4: don't die
So, knowing it's dialogue I think you've got some wiggle room. The only ones I would not pick are the the ones where four appears as the numeral 4. It just looks strange in dialogue to me. Of these two choices: 1) ... follow Rule Number Four: don't die 2) ... follow rule number four: don't die ... the difference I get is in how I read the emphasis. With the caps, it feels like the person changes his/her voice to intone that faux "official sound" for this rule being a real thing, even though it's obviously just in jest. Without the caps I read it sans any emphasis or added "drama" on the part of the speaker.
Someone once told me (I can't for the live of me remember who - oh wait: it was the academics world) that numbers up to ten should be written in characters and all other numbers should be as numerals. I agree with Wreybies with regard to the emphasis. Your choice
