Capitalization Rules 4 SP1

✨ Capitalization Rules: After a Colon

A colon ( : ) is a punctuation mark that tells the reader, “Pay attention, something important is coming!” It often introduces a list, an explanation, or even another sentence. But what about capitalization after a colon? Let’s break it down in simple steps.

🟢 General Rule

• Do not capitalize the first word after a colon if it is just a list or a phrase.
• Capitalize the first word after a colon if it starts a complete sentence or is a proper noun (like London, Harry Potter, or NASA).

🧾 Examples: No Capitalization After a Colon

Here the colon introduces a list or phrase, so the first word stays lowercase:

• Bring three things: water, snacks, and a jacket.
• The shop sells many items: books, pencils, and toys.
• I need one thing: patience.
• She has two favorite colors: blue and green.

✍️ Examples: Capitalization After a Colon

Here the colon introduces a complete sentence or a proper noun, so the first word is capitalized:

• Remember: Practice makes progress.
• The rule is simple: Always wash your hands before eating.
• He shouted: Run as fast as you can!
• She has one dream: To become a doctor.
• We visited three cities: London, Paris, and Rome.

🔄 American vs. British English Differences

According to grammar guides:

Feature	American English	British English
After a colon before a list	Lowercase (unless proper noun)	Lowercase (unless proper noun)
After a colon before a complete sentence	Often capitalized (APA, Chicago style allow it)	Usually lowercase, unless proper noun
Proper nouns after a colon	Always capitalized	Always capitalized

Example:

• American English: He gave me one rule: Always Be Honest.
• British English: He gave me one rule: always be honest.

👉 Notice how American style guides sometimes allow capitalization for emphasis, while British English prefers lowercase unless it’s a proper noun.

🧩 Practice Sentences

Try to decide if the word after the colon should be capitalized:

1. She bought three fruits: apples, bananas, and oranges.
2. He reminded us: wash your hands.
3. The teacher said: Always try your best.
4. We visited two countries: Sri Lanka and India.

Answers:

1. lowercase (apples)
2. lowercase (wash)
3. capitalized (Always) – complete sentence
4. capitalized (Sri Lanka) – proper noun

🎯 Summary

• Colon introduces a list or phrase → lowercase.
• Colon introduces a complete sentence or proper noun → capitalize.
• American English sometimes capitalizes after a colon for complete sentences.

British English usually keeps it lowercase unless it’s a proper noun.