What words are not capitalized in a title MLA?
When formatting a title in MLA (Modern Language Association) style, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure consistency and professionalism. One of the key aspects of MLA title formatting is understanding which words should be capitalized and which should remain lowercase. In this article, we will explore the rules regarding what words are not capitalized in a title MLA.
General Rules for Capitalizing Titles in MLA
In MLA style, only the first word, the last word, and all principal words in a title are capitalized. Principal words include nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and conjunctions that are three or more letters long. This means that articles, prepositions, and conjunctions that are one or two letters long are typically not capitalized unless they are the first or last word in the title.
Examples of Words Not Capitalized in a Title MLA
Here are some examples of words that are generally not capitalized in a title MLA:
– Articles: a, an, the
– Prepositions: in, on, at, for, with, without
– Conjunctions: and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet, because
– Coordinating conjunctions: and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet, because
– Interjections: oh, ah, wow, etc.
Exceptions to the Rule
While most articles, prepositions, and conjunctions are not capitalized in a title MLA, there are a few exceptions:
– When the title begins with a preposition or conjunction, it is capitalized. For example, “In the Heart of the Storm” or “With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility.”
– If the title is a question, all words are capitalized, except for articles and short prepositions. For example, “What Is the Purpose of Life?”
– In the case of quotations within a title, only the first letter of the quoted word is capitalized, following MLA style guidelines.
Conclusion
Understanding what words are not capitalized in a title MLA is crucial for maintaining proper formatting in academic and professional writing. By following the rules outlined in this article, writers can ensure their titles are both grammatically correct and visually appealing. Remember, the key is to capitalize only the first word, the last word, and principal words, while keeping articles, prepositions, and conjunctions in lowercase unless they are the first or last word in the title.
