1 Capitalize the first word of every sentence.
Your poem was read at this morning’s assembly.
Begin the session now.
2 Capitalize the pronoun I as a word and in a contraction.
This card is something that I cherish.
I’ve a funny story to tell you.
3 Capitalize proper nouns and proper adjectives.
South America—South American capitals
Italy—Italian cities
Emerson—Emersonian ideals
4 Capitalize the first word of a quoted sentence.
‘‘Many surprises are awaiting you, Yogi.’’
5 Capitalize the interjection O.
O, say can you see, by the dawn’s early light . . .
6 Capitalize the abbreviations of proper nouns.
Mount Rainier . . . Mt. Rainier
Twenty-third Street . . . Twenty-third St.
Reverend Jones . . . Rev. Jones
7 Capitalize the first word of the salutation and the closing of friendly and
business letters.
Dear Mrs. Lowe,
Sincerely yours,
Respectfully,
