1. First Word of a Sentence
Always capitalize the first word of a sentence.
- I study at London University.
- My classes start at 9 a.m.
- The library is very quiet.
2. Pronoun “I”
Always capitalize the pronoun “I.”
- I like my English class.
- I live in a dormitory.
- I have a test tomorrow.
3. Proper Nouns
Capitalize the names of specific people, places, and things.
- Professor Brown teaches math.
- I study at Oxford University.
- We have a meeting in Room 205.
4. Family Relationships
Capitalize family titles when used as names.
- I called Aunt Sarah yesterday.
- My cousin Emma visits me at uni.
- I sent a message to Grandma.
5. Religious Names and Holy Books
Capitalize the names of God, religious figures, and holy books.
- We learned about Buddha in class.
- The Bible is an important book.
- Many students pray to God before exams.
Exception: Do not capitalize “god” when talking generally.
- Some people believe in many gods.
6. Titles Before Names
Capitalize titles when they come before a name.
- Dean Johnson is very friendly.
- I met Professor Lee yesterday.
- Dr. Smith teaches biology.
7. Directions as Names
Capitalize North, South, East, and West when they are part of a place name.
- I live in the Northeast.
- The Southwest is very warm.
- My family is from the Midwest.
8. Days, Months, Holidays
Capitalize days of the week, months, and holidays.
- I have classes on Monday and Wednesday.
- My birthday is in December.
- We have a holiday on Christmas Day.
Exception: Do not capitalize seasons unless they are in a title.
- I love spring because it’s warm.
- The Fall 2024 semester starts soon.
9. Countries, Nationalities, and Languages
Capitalize the names of countries, nationalities, and languages.
- I am from Spain.
- She speaks French and German.
- We study English at uni.
10. Direct Quotes
Capitalize the first word of a direct quote.
- My teacher said, “Study hard for the exam.”
- My friend told me, “Let’s go to the library.”
- The professor said, “Read chapter 5 for homework.”
11. Titles of Works
Capitalize the main words in titles of books, articles, and songs.
- We read “The Great Gatsby” in class.
- My favorite song is “Shape of You.”
- I wrote an essay called “Life at University.”
12. Groups and Organizations
Capitalize the names of groups, clubs, and organizations.
- I joined the Student Union.
- She is a member of the Football Club.
- We have a meeting with the International Students Association.
13. Periods and Events
Capitalize the names of specific periods and events.
- The First Year is very exciting.
- Graduation Day is in June.
- We study the Victorian Era in history class.
Exception: Do not capitalize centuries.
- The twentieth century had many changes.
14. Trademarks
Capitalize brand names.
- I use Microsoft Word for my assignments.
- She drinks Coca-Cola every day.
- We bought a new Samsung phone.
15. Specific Names and Abbreviations
Capitalize words and abbreviations from specific names.
- The UN is an important organization.
- NASA sent a rocket to space.
- I study Freudian psychology.
Exception: Do not capitalize general types.
- I ate french fries for lunch.
- She wore a cardigan to class.
- We studied roman numerals.