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I know that the figures and tables are numbered consecutively throughout the while paper. What about the equation numbering? Suppose I have four equations in the paper, but I want to number only two of them. Is it appropriate to do it?

Any advise is very welcome.

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Are you using a particular style guide (APA, MLA, etc.)? – Neil Fein♦ Jan 18 at 15:44
I'm using the IEEE style guide. I also would like to know what people do in general. – zkan Jan 19 at 0:10

3 Answers

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I believe the standard is to only number equations that are referenced in the text. On the other hand there is no real harm in numbering all of the equations especially when you have so few of them.

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The general rule that I often use is to number all equations that will be referred to in the text. It is then optional to number equations to which there is no reference.

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What purpose is served by an equation to which you do not refer in the text? Is it an illustration?

If the equation does not need a number, does the reader need to see it? I would number them all.

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