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Introduction to "The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation": Title

Quick References

Nonperiodic Titles
General Rules.........................R15.3
Capitalization Rules.....................R8

Typeface Conventions

Footnotes: title in small caps typeface

Textual Sentence: title in italics

Notice


This guide is currently being updated to reflect the recent changes made in The Bluebook (20th edition). Please be aware that pages containing this notice may contain out-of-date information.

General Rules for Nonperiodic Titles

Cite the full main title as it appears on the title page in small caps typeface. Subtitles may be omitted if not particularly relevant. Some general rules are given below:

Abbreviations/Omissions - Do not abbreviate words or omit articles in the title.

Capitalization - Capitalize words in a title, including the first word and any word that immediately follows a colon. Do not capitalize articles, conjunctions, or prepositions if four letters or fewer. (See Rule 8).

Title Abbreviations

No abbreviation is appropriate for nonperiodic titles. The only portion that may be omitted is the subtitle if not of particular import.

Tips

Some frequently cited works, such as Black's Law Dictionary, require special citation forms. (See Rule 15.8).


If the title is not in English, refer to Rule 20.2.2(b)