To type a numeral on your iPad, you typically have to tap the Numbers key (.?123) to switch the keyboard to numbers. Then type the number. And then tap the Alphabet key (ABC) to switch back to the regular keyboard. That is three keystrokes.
A shortcut is to tap the Numbers key and hold your fingers on the pad. The keyboard switches to numerals and symbols. While your fingers is still on the pad, slide it over to the number you want to type and then release your fingers. You have just typed the number and your iPad automatically switched you back to alphabet mode. That is only one tap and slide. This much more efficient than the traditional method if you just need to type a numeral.