AP Style #1: Capitalization

Noun capitalization

• “Go get Mom,” she said to her younger sister.

• “Go get mom,” she said to her younger sister.

Noun capitalization

• “Is your mom home?” he asked.

• “Is your Mom home?” he asked.

Common noun vs. title

• Her Aunt, Judy, is here.

• Her aunt, Judy, is here.

Common noun vs. title

• Go find your aunt Judy.

• Go find your Aunt Judy.

Common noun vs. title

• “Where’s Dad?” she asked.

• “Where’s dad?” she asked.

Events vs. generic label

• Juniors and Seniors alike are excited for Senior Prom.

• Juniors and seniors alike are excited for Senior Prom.

General references vs. full name

• She earned her bachelor’s degree from UCSB.

• She earned her Bachelor’s degree from UCSB.

Proper nouns vs. general nouns

• Of the sports seasons, fall is the most exciting.

• Of all the sports seasons, Fall is the most exciting.

Formal names vs. informal names

• Demelza was elected to the Board by a 4-1 vote; she is the board of education’s first Latina.

• Demelza was elected to the board by a 4-1 vote; she is the Board of Education’s first Latina.

Job titles vs. positions

• Wilhemina D’Arcy, senior advisor to the President.

• Wilhelmina D’Arcy, Senior Advisor to the President.