## Is Scuba Diving Capitalized?
Whether or not to capitalize “scuba diving” is a matter of style and context. In general, the following guidelines apply:
### Capitalization in Formal Writing
Capitalize “scuba diving” when it is used as a proper noun, referring to a specific event, organization, or institution.
– For example:
– The Scuba Diving World Championships are held annually.
– The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) is a leading scuba diving certification agency.
### Capitalization in Informal Writing
Lowercase “scuba diving” when it is used as a common noun, referring to the general activity or sport.
– For example:
– I enjoy scuba diving in warm, clear waters.
– We went scuba diving on our vacation to the Caribbean.
### Exceptions and Considerations
Capitalize “scuba diving” when it appears at the beginning, of a sentence.
– For example:
– Scuba diving is a popular underwater sport that involves using scuba gear to breathe underwater.
Consider capitalizing “scuba diving” when it is used in a title, or as a heading, or subheading, in a written document.
– For example:
– Scuba Diving: A Beginner’s Guide
– Section 1: Scuba Diving Basics
Follow the style guide or guidelines provided by your publisher, editor, or instructor, when in doubt.
### Additional Considerations for Titles and Headings
In APA style (used in psychology and behavioral sciences), capitalize all major words in titles, including nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. However, do not capitalize prepositions or articles (unless they are the first word of a title).
In MLA style (used in humanities and arts), capitalize only the first word of a title, as well as any proper nouns.
In Chicago style (used in history and social sciences), capitalize the first word of a title, as well as any proper nouns, conjunctions, and prepositions that are five or more letters long.
### Examples of Capitalization Styles
| Style | Example |
|—|—|
| Formal (Proper Noun) | The Scuba Diving World Championships |
| Informal (Common Noun) | I enjoy scuba diving in warm, clear waters. |
| Title (APA Style) | Scuba Diving: A Beginner’s Guide |
| Heading (MLA Style) | Section 1: Scuba Diving Basics |
| Subheading (Chicago Style) | III. The Evolution of Scuba Diving Equipment |