Ordering Roman numerals: step-by-step example
22 October 2026
Roman numerals follow special rules for their order. To compare them, it helps to change each one into a number you already know. This makes it much easier for your child to see which is smallest and which is largest.
Worked example
Order these Roman numerals from smallest to largest: IX, VI, XII.
First, change each Roman numeral to numbers you know. IX is 9, VI is 6, XII is 12.
Now compare the numbers: 6, 9, 12.
Put them in order from smallest to largest: 6, 9, 12.
Write the Roman numerals in the same order: VI, IX, XII.
The correct answer is VI, IX, XII.
| Roman numeral | Value |
|---|---|
| VI | 6 |
| IX | 9 |
| XII | 12 |
Key insight: Once your child can match Roman numerals to their values, putting them in order is straightforward. Now they can spot the order in any set of Roman numerals and are ready to practise more questions just like this.
