1. Start with the facts

Answer the basic questions:

Who is in the photo? (Use full names.)

What is happening?

When/Where if it adds context.

Avoid writing what the reader can already see. Instead of:

“Jaxson playing football.”

Try:

“Senior Jaxson Davidson throws a touchdown pass during the district championship game against Rupert High.”

2. Add context or detail

This is what makes a caption memorable. Include:

• Why the moment mattered
• The outcome of the event
• A quote
• A behind-the-scenes detail

Example:

Senior Jaxson Davidson throws a touchdown pass during the district championship game against Rupert High. The team went on to victory, advancing to state for the seventh time in school history.

3. Use present tense

Yearbook captions are typically written in present tense to make the moment feel current.

✅ “runs,” “celebrates,” “competes”

❌ “ran,” “celebrated,” “competed”

4. Keep it concise

Aim for:

• 1–2 sentences
• 20–40 words (generally)
• Long enough to tell the story, short enough to stay readable.

5. Double-check accuracy

• Correct spelling of names
• Correct grades and titles
• Accurate event details
• Accuracy builds credibility.

Caption Template

If your students are stuck, use this starter:

[Full name] + [specific action] + [event/context]. [Additional detail, outcome, or quote.]