Capitalization means using an uppercase letter at the beginning of certain words. Correct capitalization shows respect for names, places, and important titles, and helps sentences look clear and correct.
Always begin a sentence and proper nouns (like names of people and places) with capital letters.
Every sentence must begin with a capital letter. This rule applies no matter what word starts the sentence.
If you are not sure, check the very first word in the sentence. It should always start with a capital letter.
Names of people, cities, countries, streets, and specific places always need capital letters. These are called proper nouns.
If the word names a specific person or place, it should be capitalized. General words (like “city” or “teacher”) are not capitalized unless they are part of a title.
When writing titles of books, stories, or holidays, capitalize the first word and all important words.
Not every word in a title needs a capital letter. Small words like “a,” “and,” or “the” are not usually capitalized unless they are the first word.
Sometimes writers use capital letters where they do not belong. Only proper nouns, the first word in a sentence, and titles need capital letters.
Do not use capital letters to make words look “important.” Save capitals for where the rules require them.