The scale note number is the position the note occupies in the scale. So, in the key of C, C is 1, D is 2, E is 3 et cetera. If the number isprecededd by a plus sign, increase the position by a half step. For example, if the scale or chord calls for a sharp 4, an F# in the key of C, the number would be +4. If a minor 3rd is appropriate, a -3 would indicate an Eb in the key of C.
If you're playing in a C-diminished scale (5th example), you're using C, D, Eb, F, Gb, G#, A, B & that would bring you back to C, to paraphrase the familiar song. In numerical terms that is 1 2-3 4-5+5 6 7 8.
Of course, not all of the notes would be played together to make a pleasant sounding chord. So the notes that best describe the scale in pleasing simultaneity are mentioned in the "notes in chord" column to the right.
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