Capitalization

Here are five capitalization rules you need to know.

1. Capitalize the first word of a title or a subtitle and every other major word in it.

Standard

The Freedom of Life: Of Oxen, of Sheep, and of Cattle.

2. Capitalize the first word of a sentence.

Standard

She mailed me a postcard. The post office lost it. We were unhappy for days.

This applies to the first word of a quoted sentence as well:

Standard

He said, “The best way to sing is loud.”

She said a brief “Good morning” and dashed out the door.

3. Capitalize proper nouns.

Standard Sentences

Go to Egypt, France, and Italy, Mr. Rodagh.

We should visit Annie, Sabia, and Klara.

Will you take a class in English, Italian, Chinese, French, or Russian?

4. Note that nicknames are proper nouns and should be capitalized while common nouns that refer to people are just common nouns and should not be capitalized.

Standard Sentences

I said to Dad, “Shall I go?”

I asked my mother, “Where is the dog, Mom?”

If you have questions, ask the professor.

When will Professor Jones be in?

5. Note that directions are not proper nouns; however, regions described by directions are proper nouns.

Standard Sentences

Go south five blocks.

I went to school in the South.