X Tables
Early Years Maths

Writing numerals 0 to 9

Support number formation with tracing, sand, air-writing and meaning.

Quick answer

You can write numerals 0 to 9 by learning the correct shape and direction for each number, using tracing, air-writing, and real-life examples.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to write the numerals 0 to 9 correctly and confidently, using the right shape and direction for each one. Success signs:
  • You can trace the numerals 0 to 9 without help
  • You can write the numerals 0 to 9 from memory
  • You understand how to start and finish each numeral
  • You can match numerals to the correct number of objects

Why this matters

Writing numerals correctly is the first step to understanding numbers and maths. When you write 5, you are showing the number of things you have. It helps you count, add, subtract, and solve problems. Whether you are writing in your notebook, playing a game, or sharing your snacks, knowing how to write numbers helps you communicate and solve problems.

How it works

To write numerals 0 to 9, you need to know:
  1. What each numeral looks like
  2. How to start and finish each numeral
  3. How to make the correct shape
  4. How to write them in the right direction
Start with the simplest numerals, like 0 and 1, and then work your way up to 9. Practice each one slowly, and try to make the shape smooth and neat.

Examples you can see

Here are the numerals 0 to 9 with how to write them:
Numeral How to write it Example in real life
0 Draw a circle, starting at the top and going around A pizza cut into 0 slices
1 Draw a straight line from top to bottom One apple in your lunch box
2 Start at the top, go down in a curve, then go across to the right Two socks in your drawer
3 Start at the top, go down in a curve, then up in a curve Three birds in a tree
4 Draw a vertical line, then a horizontal line across the top Four legs on a table
5 Start at the top, go down in a curve, then go across to the right Five fingers on your hand
6 Start at the top, go down in a curve, then go around to the right Six petals on a flower
7 Start at the top, go down in a straight line, then across to the right Seven days in a week
8 Draw two circles, one on top of the other Eight legs on a spider
9 Start at the top, go down in a curve, then go around to the right Nine candles on a birthday cake

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Number Hunt! You are going on a number hunt around your house. Each room has a number you need to find and write. Here’s how to play:
  1. Room 1: Find 1 thing and write the number 1
  2. Room 2: Find 2 things and write the number 2
  3. Room 3: Find 3 things and write the number 3
  4. Room 4: Find 4 things and write the number 4
  5. Room 5: Find 5 things and write the number 5
  6. Room 6: Find 6 things and write the number 6
  7. Room 7: Find 7 things and write the number 7
  8. Room 8: Find 8 things and write the number 8
  9. Room 9: Find 9 things and write the number 9
For each room, count the things you find and write the correct number. When you are done, you will have written all the numbers 1 to 9!

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Writing 6 and 9 the same way.
    Why it happens: These numbers look similar.
    Fix: Remember that 6 starts at the top and curves down to the right, while 9 starts at the top, curves down, and then goes around to the right.
  • Mistake: Not starting or finishing numerals in the right place.
    Why it happens: Not paying attention to the correct direction.
    Fix: Practice tracing the numeral first to learn the correct start and finish.
  • Mistake: Writing numbers backwards or upside down.
    Why it happens: Confusion about the direction of writing.
    Fix: Practice writing the numbers from top to bottom, and left to right.

Parent and carer guide

Parents and carers can help by:
  • Practicing writing numerals with your child using a pencil or marker
  • Using tracing sheets or number books to help your child practice
  • Counting things around the house and matching them to the correct numeral
  • Playing games like "number hunt" or "number race"
  • Encouraging your child to write the numbers in sand or with their finger in the air
What to say: "Great job writing the number 5! Can you find 5 things in the room?" What not to worry about: It's normal for children to make mistakes when learning to write numbers. Be patient and keep practicing.

Practice questions

  1. What numeral comes after 3?
  2. Write the number 7 in the air.
  3. How many legs does a spider have? Write the number.
  4. Draw 3 circles and write the number 3.
  5. Find 8 things in your room and write the number 8.
Answers:
  1. 4
  2. Write 7
  3. 8
  4. Draw 3 circles and write 3
  5. Write 8

FAQ

What is the best way to learn to write numerals?

The best way is to practice every day, use tracing sheets, and write in sand or with your finger in the air.

How do I know if I am writing the numerals correctly?

Look at how the numbers are written in your books or on the board. Ask an adult to check your writing.

Can I write numerals in different ways?

Yes! You can write them with a pencil, in sand, in the air, or even with your fingers. The important thing is to write them correctly.

Why do we need to learn to write numerals?

Writing numerals helps us count, add, and solve problems. It’s the first step to learning maths!

How many numerals are there from 0 to 9?

There are 10 numerals from 0 to 9.