Lowercase is preferred for list items that, together with an introductory phrase, form a complete sentence (Example A). Initial capitalization is preferred for list items that are complete sentences (Example B) or stand-alone phrases (Examples C and D). Preferred style is without terminal punctuation, unless the list item is a complete sentence. Numbered lists may appear with or without the period after the number. One has flexibility in choosing styles for punctuating lists, as long as consistency is maintained within a document.

Example A:

This list constitutes, with its introduction and list items, a complete sentence. It is numbered to indicate a chronology of steps, with no period after the number. Each list item is lowercased, and there is no terminal punctuation.

To qualify for the certificate, students must:

  1. submit a Certificate Form of Intent
  2. attend at least 80 percent of the classes
  3. achieve a “Pass” designation in coursework from the instructors
  4. submit a Certificate Request Form after all requirements have been met
  5. submit a Professional Certificate Program Survey

Example B:

This example comprises an introductory sentence followed by a list of complete sentences. It is numbered to indicate a certain number of goals, with no period after the number. Each list item begins with an initial cap, and there is terminal punctuation at the end of each item.

This BA program includes the following goals:

  1. Each student will be able to identify and discuss the origins of major environmental problems facing society.
  2. Each student will be able to apply principles of ecology and other natural sciences to environmental issues.
  3. Each student will be able to integrate concepts from the natural and social sciences in the analysis of environmental problems.

Example C:

This example comprises an introductory sentence followed by a list of phrases. Bullets are used because there is no chronology or step-by-step process implied. Each list item begins with an initial cap, and there is no terminal punctuation.

Other online innovations have also been developed:

  • Financial aid application
  • Financial aid requests for documentation
  • Net tuition calculator
  • Student satisfaction survey
  • Web-based class schedule

Example D:

This example comprises an introductory phrase followed by a list of phrases. Numbers are used to indicate four sets of requirements, but bullets could be used instead. A period is used after each number, each list item begins with an initial capital, and there is no terminal punctuation.

A minimum of 20 credits is required for the minor:

  1. Introduction to Environmental Science
  2. Environmental Policy or Environmental Regulations
  3. Geology (with lab) or General Ecology (with lab)
  4. At least two additional environmental studies courses, at least one of which must be upper level