Capitalize in the following manner:

Ph.D., M.S., B.S. (always include the periods)

Ph.D., M.S., B.S. (always include the periods) doctoral degree in physics, master's degree in English, bachelor's degree in accounting He received a Bachelor of Science in physics. She will receive a B.S. in psychology. She received her M.A. in English. He earned a master's degree in physics. She has a Ph.D. in chemistry. He received his doctorate in psychology. The word "degree" should not follow a degree abbreviation Correct: He has a B.A. in history. Incorrect: He has a B.A. degree in history.

Uppercase when it is the name of a language or used as a specific course title: He majored in political science with a minor in Spanish. She teaches Chemistry 101.

Lowercase an academic subject when it is used as a general field of study: Kentucky State University offers programs in history, biology and education.

Affect is almost always used as a verb, meaning “to influence,” “to act on” or “to produce an effect or change in.” Uses of affect as a noun are considered nearly obsolete, with an exception being as a term in psychology, reflecting an emotional response to stimulus.

The news stories affected the election.

Effect is almost always used as a noun, meaning “result” or “outcome.”

Effect is almost always used as a noun, meaning 'result' or 'outcome'. When used as a verb, effect immediately followed by a noun means "to make happen" or "to bring about." His test score had a positive effect on his final grade.

The best way to effect change is to become an active participant.

Do not use a hyphen, whether as a noun or adjective.

Always a numeral:

1 day old to 110 years old, 7 years old, 110 years old Always hyphenate when used as a modifier: 12-year-old boy

Always spell out numbers used at the beginning of a sentence: Twenty women participated in the race. Recommendation — always avoid beginning sentences with numbers.