Capitalization is like lifting the first letter of certain words; it signals the importance of specific elements in written language. Just as a strong start sets the tone for a story, capital letters mark the beginning of proper nouns, sentences, and other significant elements.
Key Rules of Capitalization:
First Word of a Sentence:
The first word of a sentence is always capitalized.
Example:
He enjoys playing the guitar.
Proper Nouns:
Proper nouns refer to specific names of people, places, organizations, and titles. They are always capitalized.
Example:
London is a beautiful city.
Days of the Week, Months, and Holidays:
Names of days, months, and holidays are capitalized.
Example:
I will visit my grandparents on Sunday in May during Christmas.
Titles and Names:
Capitalize titles used with names when they precede the name, but not when they follow it.
Example:
Professor Smith is my favorite teacher.
I spoke with Senator Brown.
Nationalities and Languages:
Nationalities and languages are capitalized.
Example:
American English is different from British English.
First Word in Direct Quotations:
The first word in a direct quotation is capitalized.
Example:
He said, “I will be there in a minute.”
First Word of a Line of Poetry:
The first word of each line of poetry is capitalized.
Example:
Roses are red, Violets are blue, Sugar is sweet, And so are you.
Exceptions to Capitalization:
Generic Terms:
Generic terms, such as “boy,” “girl,” “river,” or “country,” are not capitalized unless they are part of a proper noun.
Example:
I saw a boy fishing in the river.
Seasons:
Names of seasons are not capitalized unless they are part of a proper noun.
