# Spell out ordinal numbers (EK00029)

import { Aside, Badge } from '@astrojs/starlight/components';

Spelled-out ordinals like "first" and "third" read more naturally in prose than "1st" and "3rd", so write them as words. EkLine flags an ordinal written as a numeral with a suffix (rule EK00029).

## Why spell out ordinal numbers in documentation?

Spelled-out ordinals keep step-by-step instructions readable and match the tone your audience expects in prose. Words like "first" and "third" flow better than "1st" and "3rd", which can look terse or informal. Consistent ordinals also read cleanly when a screen reader reads your documentation aloud.

## What EkLine flags

EK00029 matches an ordinal written as a numeral followed by a suffix such as "st", "nd", "rd", or "th".

- ❌ **Incorrect:** Complete the 1st step before you continue.
- ✅ **Correct:** Complete the first step before you continue.
- ❌ **Incorrect:** Select the 3rd option from the menu.
- ✅ **Correct:** Select the third option from the menu.

## How to fix

Replace the numeral-and-suffix ordinal with its spelled-out word.

<Aside type="note">
Very large ordinals are clearer as numerals — for example, "the 100th request". When spelling one out would be unwieldy, keep the numeral and ignore the rule for that line.
</Aside>

## FAQ

### When should you spell out an ordinal number?

Spell out ordinals in prose and step-by-step instructions, writing "first" or "third" rather than "1st" or "3rd". Very large ordinals, such as "the 100th request", are clearer as numerals.

### What is an ordinal number?

An ordinal number shows position in a sequence, such as first, second, or third. This rule covers ordinals written as a numeral plus a suffix like "st", "nd", "rd", or "th".

## Rule details

| Property | Value |
|----------|-------|
| Rule ID | `EK00029` |
| Category | Spelling and grammar |
| Default severity | <Badge text="Error" variant="danger" /> |
| Enabled by default | No |

## Ignore this rule

To keep a numeral ordinal on one line, add an inline comment:

```markdown
<!-- ekline-ignore-next-line EK00029 -- large ordinal reads better as a numeral -->
The limit resets on the 100th request.
```

To disable the rule across your project, add it to the `ignore` list in your [configuration file](/reviewer/configuration/ignoring-rules/#ignore).

## Related rules

- [EK00045](/reviewer/rules/ek00045/) — Avoid ordinal numbers in dates
- [EK00048](/reviewer/rules/ek00048/) — Avoid adding -ly to ordinal numbers