Vitamins and minerals mnemonic

Vitamin K dependent clotting factors

The mnemonic

Two, Seven, Nine, Ten

What each word stands for

  • 2Prothrombin (factor II)
  • 7Factor VII
  • 9Factor IX
  • 10Factor X

Why it matters clinically

Warfarin impairs these factors; short half-life factor VII makes PT the first test to rise.

Where it stops being reliable

Proteins C and S are also vitamin K dependent but are not covered by this list.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Vitamins and minerals mnemonic?

Two, Seven, Nine, Ten. It helps you recall: Vitamin K dependent clotting factors.

What does "2" stand for?

Prothrombin (factor II)

What does "7" stand for?

Factor VII

What does "9" stand for?

Factor IX

What are all the parts of the Two, Seven, Nine, Ten mnemonic?

2: Prothrombin (factor II); 7: Factor VII; 9: Factor IX; 10: Factor X.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Vitamins and minerals in Biochemistry.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Proteins C and S are also vitamin K dependent but are not covered by this list.

How is this useful clinically?

Warfarin impairs these factors; short half-life factor VII makes PT the first test to rise.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Biochemistry question about Vitamins and minerals.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.