The Rules of Capitalization

Capitalize the first word in a sentence. In Gwinnett, the schools open before Labor Day.

Capitalize the first word in a direct quote. He said, “The concert will begin soon.”

Capitalize the pronoun I. My friends and I love to text one another.

Remember… A proper noun is capitalized because it names a specific person, place, or thing – ex: New Life Academy A common noun names a kind or type of person, place, or thing. Common nouns are not capitalized – ex: school

Capitalize the names of people. Capitalize a person’s first and last names John Smith Capitalize a person’s title when that person is named specifically – Aunt Kate President Kennedy Doctor Davis

Capitalize geographic names. Capitalize places only if they are written as proper nouns. Miami, Boston – cities Duluth, Norcross– towns Georgia, Florida – states United States, England - countries Mississippi River - rivers

Capitalize special and historical events. holidays – Easter historical events – Revolutionary War

Capitalize the names of nationalities, languages, races and religions. nationalities – Mexican, French languages – Spanish, Chinese races – Asian, African religions – Christian, Jewish, Muslim

Capitalize names of organizations and businesses. organizations – Girl Scouts business firms – Montlick and Associates

Capitalize the brand names of business products. Pepsi soda, Toyota Prius car Notice only the name, not the object is capitalized

Capitalize the names of ships, planets, monuments, special awards. ships – the Mayflower planets - Mars, Earth monuments – Eiffel Tower awards – Heisman Trophy, World Cup

Capitalize the first word and all important words in a title. books – Number the Stars movies – Frozen, Beauty and the Beast music – Star Spangled Banner

No capitalization needed names of the seasons – summer, fall, winter, spring directions – north, south, east, west names of school subject – history, math, science –EXCEPT … Languages – English, Chinese