Numbers

The numeric indicator, and how digits reuse a–j.

Learn

Braille uses the first ten letters for the digits. The numeric indicator (dots 3, 4, 5, 6) in front tells the reader that what follows is a number: 1 is the numeric indicator then a, 2 is the numeric indicator then b, and so on up to 9. Zero uses j.

One numeric indicator covers the whole number. “2026” is the numeric indicator followed by b, j, b, f. You don’t repeat it before each digit.

numeric indicatordots 3, 4, 5, 6Placed before a number: dots 3, 4, 5, 6.
1dots 3, 4, 5, 6, then dot 1The numeric indicator, then a.
2dots 3, 4, 5, 6, then dots 1, 2The numeric indicator, then b.
3dots 3, 4, 5, 6, then dots 1, 4The numeric indicator, then c.
0dots 3, 4, 5, 6, then dots 2, 4, 5The numeric indicator, then j.
10dots 3, 4, 5, 6, then dot 1, then dots 2, 4, 5One numeric indicator for both digits.

Examples

Each example is shown cell by cell, with what each cell stands for underneath.

7
10
2026
One numeric indicator for the whole number.
I am 9.
The period after the number is an ordinary period.

Your Turn

Write It Yourself

Braille is read by touch and written dot by dot. Recreate each character below in the writer. The best way to make it stick.

numeric indicator (current)
1
2
3
0
10

Character 1 of 6

Write:numeric indicator

Keys F D S and J K L (or 1–6) raise dots · Enter checks

Practice

Keep Practicing: Number Lock

Finish writing the characters above, then this practice activity will help it stick.

Tip One numeric indicator covers a whole run of digits.