chicago style do names get it

2 min read 22-01-2025

The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) offers specific guidelines for formatting names in your writing, depending on the context. Consistency is key, so choose a style and stick with it throughout your work. This guide breaks down the most common name formatting scenarios according to the 17th edition of CMOS.

Formatting Personal Names in Chicago Style

The basic rule for personal names in Chicago style is to present them as [Given Name(s) Family Name]. Let's look at some examples:

One Given Name: Jane Doe
Multiple Given Names: John Robert Smith
Hyphenated Given Name: Mary-Jane Jones
Family Name with a Prefix: De La Cruz, Maria

Initials

You can use initials in place of given names if you only have them. Always put a period after each initial. For example: J.R.R. Tolkien. Avoid using only initials if the full name is known.

Names with Titles

The formatting of titles before names depends on the context:

Formal settings (e.g., bibliography): Professor Jane Doe, Dr. John Smith. The title is placed before the name and the title is not abbreviated.
Informal settings: Jane Doe, professor of English; John Smith, MD. In less formal contexts you can put the title after the name. Abbreviated titles are acceptable.

Names with Jr., Sr., III, etc.

These suffixes are placed after the family name, without any commas: John Smith Jr., Jane Doe III.

Names with Nicknames or Pseudonyms

If using a nickname or pseudonym, use the preferred name, but include the real name in parentheses: Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens). In a formal context, you may only use the real name.

Formatting Names in Bibliographies and Citations

In Chicago style bibliographies and citations, the order of names is typically reversed: [Family Name, Given Name(s)].

For example:

Single Author: Doe, Jane. My Book. Publisher, Year.
Multiple Authors: Smith, John R., and Jane Doe. Our Book. Publisher, Year.

Formatting Names in Footnotes and Endnotes

Footnotes and endnotes follow the same rules as bibliographies and citations: [Family Name, Given Name(s)].

Special Cases: Compound Names, Titles of Nobility, and More

Compound names: If a family name is hyphenated (e.g., Van der Merwe), treat it as a single unit.
Titles of nobility: Generally, place titles of nobility before the given name (e.g., Queen Elizabeth II).
Religious names: Follow the individual's preferred format. If unsure, err on the side of caution and use their full given name.
Names with diacritical marks: Retain diacritical marks (e.g., accents) in names.

Inconsistent Naming Conventions in Sources?

If you are using sources with inconsistent naming conventions, maintain consistency within your work, and note the original name in parentheses or a footnote for clarity.

Key Takeaways for Chicago Style Name Formatting

Remember to remain consistent throughout your entire work. Choose one style guide and use it accordingly. Use the reversed order format (Family Name, Given Name) in bibliographies, citations, footnotes, and endnotes. For the body of the paper, use the standard format (Given Name(s) Family Name). Paying close attention to these details ensures the accuracy and professionalism of your work according to Chicago style guidelines. When in doubt, always consult The Chicago Manual of Style for the most up-to-date and comprehensive guidance.