

How to Write Roman Numerals 1 to 10 with Examples and Table
The concept of Roman numerals 1 to 10 is essential in mathematics and helps in solving real-world and exam-level problems efficiently. Knowing these numerals helps students read clocks, old books, and solve specific math questions in exams and worksheets.
Understanding Roman Numerals 1 to 10
Roman numerals 1 to 10 are numbers represented by letters from the ancient Roman number system. Instead of our usual digits (1, 2, 3...), the Romans used symbols like I, V, and X. This concept is widely used in ancient number systems, maths puzzles, and modern places like clocks and book chapters.
Here’s a helpful table to understand Roman numerals 1 to 10 more clearly:
Roman Numerals 1 to 10 Table
Hindu-Arabic Number | Roman Numeral | In Words |
---|---|---|
1 | I | One |
2 | II | Two |
3 | III | Three |
4 | IV | Four |
5 | V | Five |
6 | VI | Six |
7 | VII | Seven |
8 | VIII | Eight |
9 | IX | Nine |
10 | X | Ten |
This table shows how the pattern of Roman numerals 1 to 10 appears regularly and can help in fast revision or exam time reference.
How to Write Roman Numerals 1 to 10
Roman numerals use a combination of basic symbols: I (1), V (5), and X (10). Here are the main rules to write numbers from 1 to 10 in Roman numerals:
2. For 4, write IV (one less than V).
3. Write V for 5.
4. For 6, 7, and 8, add I’s to V (VI, VII, VIII).
5. For 9, write IX (one less than X).
6. Write X for 10.
Worked Examples – Converting Numbers
Example 1: Convert 7 into Roman numerals.
Step 2: 5 is V, 2 is II
Step 3: So, 7 in Roman numerals = VII
Example 2: Convert IX into a Hindu-Arabic number.
Step 2: 10 - 1 = 9
Step 3: IX = 9
Roman Numerals 1 to 10 in Exams
Schools and exam boards such as CBSE and ICSE often include questions on Roman numerals 1 to 10. Here’s how they come up:
- Write numbers in Roman numerals for chapters, lists, or clock timings.
- Convert numbers between Hindu-Arabic and Roman numerals in worksheets.
- Solve quick revision tasks or multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Common Mistakes & Tips
- Confusing IV (4) and VI (6) — remember IV is before V (so 1 less), and VI is after V (so 1 more).
- Mixing IX (9) with XI (11) — IX is 1 less than 10, XI is 1 after 10.
- Do not repeat the same symbol more than three times in a row (so thirteen is not IIIIIIIIIIII).
- Practice with charts and tables to spot similar patterns.
Practice Problems
- Write the Roman numeral for 8.
- Convert VII to Hindu-Arabic numbers.
- What is the Roman numeral for 10?
- Write all numbers from 1 to 10 in Roman numerals from memory.
Worksheet & Practice Resources
Download and practice writing Roman numerals 1 to 10 with printable worksheets for self-revision and school homework. Answer keys are included for self-assessment. Practice regularly to master the topic!
Extended Learning
Once you are confident with Roman numerals 1 to 10, you can explore:
- Roman numerals conversion
- Numbers in English
- Number system
- Tables 1 to 100
- Number names 1 to 50
- Ordinal numbers
- Numbers
- Prime numbers
- Tables
- Place value
We explored the idea of Roman numerals 1 to 10, how to write and convert them, common mistakes to avoid, and why they still matter in maths and daily life. Practice with Vedantu makes this topic simple and boosts your maths confidence!
FAQs on Roman Numerals 1 to 10: Symbols, Chart, and Words
1. What is Roman numerals 1 to 10?
Roman numerals 1 to 10 use the ancient **Roman number system** symbols to represent numbers. The sequence starts from I (1) and goes up to X (10), helping students understand an alternative numeric notation used in clocks, books, and historical contexts.
2. How to write 5 in Roman numerals?
The number 5 is written as V in Roman numerals. It is one of the basic Roman symbols and represents a value of five units.
3. What is 1 to 20 in Roman numerals?
Roman numerals 1 to 20 follow this pattern: I (1), II (2), III (3), IV (4), V (5), VI (6), VII (7), VIII (8), IX (9), X (10), XI (11), XII (12), XIII (13), XIV (14), XV (15), XVI (16), XVII (17), XVIII (18), XIX (19), XX (20).
4. What is 8 in Roman numerals?
The number 8 is written as VIII in Roman numerals. It combines V (5) and III (3) to form eight.
5. What is a Roman numerals worksheet?
A Roman numerals worksheet is a practice sheet containing questions and exercises focused on recognizing, writing, and converting numbers into Roman numerals, especially from 1 to 10 or beyond. It helps students prepare for exams and improve their conversion skills.
6. How to remember Roman numerals easily?
Remembering Roman numerals easily involves learning key symbols and rules:
- Memorize basic symbols: I (1), V (5), X (10).
- Understand addition and subtraction: e.g., IV (4) means 5 - 1.
- Use mnemonic devices: e.g., 'I Value Xylophones' for I, V, X.
- Practice with charts and worksheets: Visual aids reinforce memory.
7. Why is IV used for 4 but VI for 6 in Roman numerals?
In Roman numerals, IV is used for 4 because a smaller numeral (I) placed before a larger numeral (V) subtracts its value (5 - 1 = 4). For 6, VI places the smaller numeral (I) after the larger V, so you add the values (5 + 1 = 6). This rule governs how subtraction and addition are represented.
8. Why do students confuse IX and XI?
Students often confuse IX (9) and XI (11) due to their similar letters but different orders. IX uses subtraction (10 - 1), while XI adds (10 + 1). Understanding the order rule—smaller before larger means subtraction, smaller after larger means addition—helps avoid this confusion.
9. Why are Roman numerals still taught even though we use Arabic numbers?
Roman numerals are taught because they help students:
- Understand historical numeric systems and their influence.
- Read and interpret clocks, book chapters, movie sequels, and legal documents.
- Develop skills in **numeral conversion** and symbolic reasoning useful in exams.
10. Why doesn't Roman numerals have a symbol for zero?
Roman numerals lack a symbol for zero because the ancient Romans did not use zero in their number system. Their numbering focused on counting and ordering rather than a positional place value system, which is why modern zero came later in number history.
11. How to avoid common exam mistakes in Roman numerals?
To avoid common mistakes in exams:
- Follow the rules for subtractive notation carefully (e.g., IV, IX, not IIII or VIIII).
- Memorize basic Roman symbols I, V, X.
- Practice converting numbers back and forth using worksheets.
- Use provided charts to double-check answers in revision.
- Watch out for confusing letters: III (3) vs VIII (8), IX (9) vs XI (11).
12. Are Roman numerals used in real-life math problems?
Roman numerals are rarely used in everyday math problems but frequently appear in:
- Historical contexts such as dates and old texts.
- Clock faces (analog watches).
- Math puzzles and educational games.
- Exams as part of syllabus to check **number conversion** skills.
Understanding them builds foundational number system knowledge.





