Capitalization

It is easy in this techno crazy age to leave out capitalization when you text someone.  That is because it is easier and faster to type.  However, in written English it is mandatory to know when and what to capitalize.  Let's take a look at some of the instances when capital letters are necessary.

One:  The first word of a sentence is always capitalized unless it is preceded by a conjunction or adverbial conjunction or semicolon.  Look at sentences [1], [2], and [3].

1. My friend is with me.  Her name is Samantha.

2. Samantha's friend is coming with us, but she cannot stay long.

3. Samantha and her friend never argue; they are great friends.


Two: Proper nouns (the names of people, places, titles, and languages) are always capitalized.  See the examples below.

the White House
Barak Obama
Paris
Virginia
English
French
Bryce Resort
New York City
Empire State Building

When you write a title, the first word is always capitalized.  Do not capitalize articles or prepositions unless they are first in the title.  Look at the examples below.

The Color Purple
A Prayer for the Dying
Water for Elephants


Three:  The first person pronoun "I" is always capitalized.  Never write "i".

Now try this quiz on capitalization.  Good luck!