Test your knowledge of English capitalization rules with this interactive quiz! Learn why the first word in every sentence must be capitalized, explore common mistakes, and practice with clear examples. Capitalization Quiz
Author: mypaperr
Capitalization Rules 2 SP1
β¨ Tricky Capitalization Cases: After Quotations
When we use quotation marks (β β) in writing, we have to be careful about capitalization. Quotation marks show the exact words someone said or wrote. But should the first word inside the quotation marks be capitalized? It depends on whether the quotation is a complete sentence or just a part of a sentence.
π’ Rule 1: Complete Quoted Sentence β Capitalize the First Word
If the words inside the quotation marks form a full sentence, then the first word must be capitalized.
Examples:
- She said, βThis book is amazing.β
- My teacher told us, βYou must finish your homework.β
- The coach shouted, βRun as fast as you can!β
- Dad asked, βAre you ready for dinner?β
π Notice how the first word inside the quotation marks (This, You, Run, Are) is capitalized because each quotation is a complete sentence.
π‘ Rule 2: Partial Quote Within a Sentence β Do NOT Capitalize
If the words inside the quotation marks are just part of the sentence, then the first word inside the quotation marks is not capitalized (unless it begins the whole sentence).
Examples:
- She said the book was βamazing and inspiring.β
- The teacher called the project βa great success.β
- My friend described the movie as βfunny but too long.β
- The sign read βno parking after 6 p.m.β
π Here, the quoted words are not full sentences. They are fragments, so the first word inside the quotation marks stays lowercase (amazing, a, funny, no).
π American vs. British English Differences
There are a few differences in how quotation marks and punctuation are used in American and British English:
| Feature | American English | British English |
| Quotation marks | Usually double quotes (β β) | Usually single quotes (β β) |
| Punctuation placement | Periods and commas go inside the quotation marks | Periods and commas often go outside the quotation marks |
| Capitalization | Same rules: capitalize the first word of a complete sentence, not a fragment | Same rules: capitalize the first word of a complete sentence, not a fragment |
Examples:
- American English: She said, βThis book is amazing.β
- British English: She said, βThis book is amazingβ.
- American English: The sign read βno parking after 6 p.m.β
- British English: The sign read βno parking after 6 p.mβ.
π The capitalization rules are the same, but the style of quotation marks and punctuation placement changes.
Capitalization Quiz 1
Test your knowledge of English capitalization rules with this interactive quiz! Learn why the first word in every sentence must be capitalized, explore common mistakes, and practice with clear examples. Capitalization Quiz
β¨ Face the challenge
Capitalization Rules SP1
What is a sentence? How can we find clearly? Use the following to get an idea of Capitalization Rules.
- Definition: A sentence expresses a complete thought and usually ends with a full stop, question mark, or exclamation mark.
- Start point: The first letter after endβofβsentence punctuation is the beginning of a new sentence and must be capitalized.
- Example: The girl is reading. She enjoys novels.
1.1.1
The core rule
- Rule: Capitalize the first word in every sentence.
- Reason: It signals a clear start for readers and matches standard English conventions in academic and professional writing.
- Examples:
- The girl is reading.
- English helps us communicate.
- Can you help me?
1.1.2
Tricky cases to watch
- After quotations:
- Complete quoted sentence: Capitalize the first word.
- She said, βThis book is amazing.β
- Partial quote within your sentence: Do not capitalize unless it starts the sentence.
- She said the book was βamazing and inspiring.β Read more
- Complete quoted sentence: Capitalize the first word.
- After end punctuation in the same line:
- Multiple sentences: Each new sentence begins with a capital.
- Itβs raining. Bring an umbrella. Stay warm.
- Multiple sentences: Each new sentence begins with a capital.
- After a colon:
- General rule: Donβt capitalize the first word after a colon unless it starts a complete sentence or a proper noun.
- Bring three things: water, snacks, and a jacket.
- Remember: Practice makes progress.
- General rule: Donβt capitalize the first word after a colon unless it starts a complete sentence or a proper noun.
- Parentheses and dashes:
- Inside a sentence: Keep lowercase if itβs not a new sentence.
- She studies English (every evening) to improve.
- If the parenthetical is a full sentence: Capitalize.
- (She studies every evening.) Her progress shows.
- After an em dash: Capitalize only if it begins a new sentence.
- She pausedβThen she spoke clearly.
- Inside a sentence: Keep lowercase if itβs not a new sentence.
- Bulleted and numbered lists:
- Fullβsentence items: Capitalize the first word.
- 1. Read the passage carefully.
- Phrase fragments: Lowercase is acceptable in informal contexts; capitalize for formal or exam settings.
- Fullβsentence items: Capitalize the first word.
- Dialogue tags:
- Tag + quoted sentence: Capitalize inside the quote.
- He asked, βAre you ready?β
- Quoted sentence + tag: The quoted sentence already begins with a capital.
- βWeβll start now,β she said.
- Tag + quoted sentence: Capitalize inside the quote.
1.1.3
Common mistakes and quick fixes
- Starting with lowercase:
- Wrong: the story begins at dawn.
- Fix: The story begins at dawn.
- Sentence after an abbreviation:
- Wrong: She arrived at 7 a.m. then left.
- Fix: She arrived at 7 a.m. Then she left.
- New sentence after parentheses:
- Wrong: She practiced daily (even on weekends). this helped a lot.
- Fix: She practiced daily (even on weekends). This helped a lot.
2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper Test 16.4
Cricket Accident β Fill in the Blanks
Complete the passage by choosing the correct words from the dropdown menus.
π 2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper β Test 16.4
π Introduction
The G.C.E. Ordinary Level English Exam is a key milestone for Sri Lankan students π. Success requires consistent practice πͺ, and this page offers English Past Paper Test 16.4 (2022/2023) to help you sharpen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills through interactive fill-in-the-blank exercises.
π What Youβll Find Here
- β¨ Fill-in-the-Blank Activity β Practice choosing the right words to complete sentences.
- π§ Grammar & Vocabulary Focus β Strengthen sentence structure and word choice.
- β Instant Answer Checking β Get immediate feedback to track your progress.
- π― Exam-Focused Content β Aligned with the O/L English syllabus for maximum relevance with English past paper
π Why Practice This Test?
- π Boost Confidence β Familiarize yourself with exam-style questions.
- π Improve Speed β Practice under timed conditions β³.
- π§ Sharpen Skills β Strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- π Achieve Success β Every small practice step brings you closer to exam success.
π‘ Tips for Students
- π Read carefully before filling blanks.
- βοΈ Think about contextβchoose words that make sense in the sentence.
- β³ Practice regularly to build fluency.
- π Review mistakes and learn from them.
π Final Note (English past paper)
This Test 16.4 resource is your path to exam readiness π. Keep practising, stay motivated, and rememberβevery effort counts towards your achievement π .
2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper Test 16.3
Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad β Fill in the Blanks
Complete the passage by choosing the correct words from the dropdown menus.
π 2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper β Test 16.3
π Introduction
The G.C.E. Ordinary Level English Exam is a major milestone for Sri Lankan students π. To succeed, consistent practice is essential πͺ. This page features Past Paper Test 16.3 (2022/2023), designed to help you strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension through interactive fill-in-the-blank exercises.
π What Youβll Find Here
- β¨ Fill-in-the-Blank Activity β Practice choosing the right words to complete sentences.
- π§ Grammar & Vocabulary Focus β Improve sentence structure and word choice.
- β Instant Answer Checking β Get immediate feedback to track your progress.
- π― Exam-Focused Content β Aligned with the O/L English syllabus for maximum relevance.
π Why Practice This Test?
- π Boost Confidence β Familiarize yourself with exam-style questions.
- π Improve Speed β Practice under timed conditions β³.
- π§ Sharpen Skills β Strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- π Achieve Success β Every small practice step brings you closer to exam success.
π‘ Tips for Students
- π Read carefully before filling blanks.
- βοΈ Think about contextβchoose words that make sense in the sentence.
- β³ Practice regularly to build fluency.
- π Review mistakes and learn from them.
π Final Note
This Test 16.3 resource is your path to exam readiness π. Keep practising, stay motivated, and rememberβevery effort counts towards your achievement π .
2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper Test 16.2
Sri Lanka Speech β Fill in the Blanks
Complete the speech by selecting the correct words from the dropdown menus.
My name is , and I am very happy to be here representing my country, . Sri Lanka is a beautiful island in the . It is called the βPearl of the Indian Oceanβ because of its natural beauty, friendly people, and rich .
In Sri Lanka, we have many interesting customs and traditions. We respect our elders, and families often celebrate together. One of our biggest festivals is , celebrated in April with games, sweets, and special rituals. Another important festival is , which celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Buddha.
Sri Lanka is also famous for its attractive and historical places. We have beautiful like Unawatuna and Bentota. There are ancient cities such as and Polonnaruwa. Our is a world-famous site that shows the skill of ancient architects.
I am proud to share that Sri Lanka is a land of . Our country welcomes visitors with warm hearts, delicious food, and colorful festivals. Thank you for listening.
π 2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper β Test 16.2
π Introduction
The G.C.E. Ordinary Level English Exam is a vital milestone for Sri Lankan students π. To succeed, consistent practice is key πͺ. This page features Past Paper Test 16.2 (2022/2023), designed to help you strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension through interactive fill-in-the-blank exercises.
π What Youβll Find Here
- β¨ Fill-in-the-Blank Activity β Practice choosing the right words to complete sentences.
- π§ Grammar & Vocabulary Focus β Improve sentence structure and word choice.
- β Instant Answer Checking β Get immediate feedback to track your progress.
- π― Exam-Focused Content β Aligned with the O/L English syllabus for maximum relevance.
π Why Practice This Test?
- π Boost Confidence β Familiarize yourself with exam-style questions.
- π Improve Speed β Practice under timed conditions β³.
- π§ Sharpen Skills β Strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- π Achieve Success β Every small practice step brings you closer to exam success.
π‘ Tips for Students
- π Read carefully before filling blanks.
- βοΈ Think about contextβchoose words that make sense in the sentence.
- β³ Practice regularly to build fluency.
- π Review mistakes and learn from them.
π Final Note
This Test 16.2 resource is your path to exam readiness π. Keep practicing, stay motivated, and rememberβevery effort counts towards your achievement π .
2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper Test 16.1
Importance of Outdoor Activities β Fill in the Blanks
Outdoor activities help students in many ways. First, they help us our talents and skills. For instance, playing football improves teamwork and running, while a nature club teaches us to observe and study and animals. Second, these activities help us challenges. When we play a game or take part in competitions, we learn how to solve problems and stay calm in difficult situations. Third, outdoor activities our personality.
I have joined the school football team and a science club. Playing football has taught me teamwork and . In the science club, I learned to work carefully and complete experiments with .
The benefits of outdoor activities are many. They make us strong, healthy, and active. They also help us make new friends and enjoy our school life. I feel happier and more confident because of these activities. Every student should take part in outdoor activities to learn new skills and enjoy life outside the classroom.
π 2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper β Test 16.1
π Introduction
The G.C.E. Ordinary Level English Exam is a crucial step for Sri Lankan students π. Success comes with consistent practice πͺ, and this page offers Past Paper Test 16.1 (2022/2023) to help you sharpen comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary skills through interactive exam-style exercises.
π What Youβll Find Here
- β¨ Reading Comprehension Passage β Strengthen your ability to understand and analyze text.
- π§ Grammar & Vocabulary Practice β Improve sentence structure and word choice.
- β Instant Answer Checking β Get immediate feedback to track your progress.
- π― Exam-Focused Content β Aligned with the O/L English syllabus for maximum relevance.
π Why Practice Past Papers?
- π Boost Confidence β Familiarize yourself with exam-style questions.
- π Improve Speed β Practice under timed conditions β³.
- π§ Sharpen Skills β Strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- π Achieve Success β Every small practice step brings you closer to exam success.
π‘ Tips for Students
- π Read the passage carefully before answering.
- βοΈ Eliminate wrong options to narrow down choices.
- β³ Practice regularly to build fluency.
- π Review mistakes and learn from them.
π Final Note
This Test 16.1 resource is your path to exam readiness π. Keep practising, stay motivated, and rememberβevery effort counts towards your achievement π .
2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper Test 15
Tom Sawyer β Reading Passage
‘Tom!’ The old lady put on her glasses and looked about for him. ‘Tom!’ she called out again, but there was no response. She walked up to the open door and looked out in the garden for him. Just then she heard a noise behind her and she turned around to find Tom sneaking out of the large cupboard in the room. She grabbed him by the collar of his shirt.
‘So that’s where you were!’ she said. ‘How many times have I told you to keep your fingers out of my jam jars. I will teach you a lesson this time.’ With that she marched him over to the umbrella stand next to the door and pulled out a cane. Tom knew he was going to get it and he had to think up something very quickly.
‘Look out Aunt Polly! There is a rat in the closet.’ He shouted. The old lady shrieked and let go of Tom’s collar. Before she discovered the imaginary rat, Tom ran out of the door and disappeared over the fence.
‘I guess, I will never learn, this boy seems to have a new trick up his sleeve each time I try to get him.’ That evening Tom got late coming home and he decided to climb through the window rather than use the front door. As he climbed through the window, he found Aunt Polly waiting for him. ‘Ah! So you found time to come back!’ She said. ‘Aunt Polly I β¦β¦β¦β¦β¦β¦β¦β¦β¦.’ ‘No! don’t answer me, I can see that you have been busy, I guess since it is past dinner time you would not be hungry, so wash yourself and go to sleep.’ With that she closed the door and walked out of the room with a firm resolve that she would teach him a lesson the next day.
(Adapted from The Adventures of Tom Sawyer)
Answer the Questions β Tom Sawyer
(a) walking out very quietly –
(b) screamed or cried in a loud manner –
2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper Test 14.2

Bar Chart β Fill in the Blanks
Read the description of the bar chart and fill in the blanks with suitable words.
According to the chart, are the most popular place. students like to visit them. The is also a popular place, and students have chosen it. The is liked by 20 students, and this shows that many students enjoy going there. Religious places are chosen by 18 students, so not as many students like to visit them as the other places.
Only 6 students said they would like to visit any of the places, and this is the least popular choice.
The chart clearly shows that most students prefer natural places like national parks and the hill country.
π 2022(2023) O/L English Past Paper β Test 14.2
π Introduction
The G.C.E. Ordinary Level English Exam is a big milestone for Sri Lankan students π. Success comes with practice πͺ, and this page offers Past Paper Test 14.2 (2022/2023) to help you strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension through interactive fill-in-the-blank exercises.
π What Youβll Find Here
- β¨ Fill-in-the-Blank Activity β Practice choosing the right words to complete sentences.
- π§ Grammar & Vocabulary Focus β Improve sentence structure and word choice.
- β Instant Answer Checking β Get immediate feedback to track your progress.
- π― Exam-Focused Content β Aligned with the O/L English syllabus for maximum relevance.
π Why Practice This Test?
- π Boost Confidence β Familiarize yourself with exam-style questions.
- π Improve Speed β Practice under timed conditions β³.
- π§ Sharpen Skills β Strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- π Achieve Success β Every small practice step brings you closer to exam success.
π‘ Tips for Students
- π Read carefully before filling blanks.
- βοΈ Think about contextβchoose words that make sense in the sentence.
- β³ Practice regularly to build fluency.
- π Review mistakes and learn from them.
π Final Note
This Test 14.2 resource is your path to exam readiness π. Keep practicsing, stay motivated, and rememberβevery effort counts towards your achievement π .