Prefixes are Sometimes Linked to the First Name and Sometimes to the Last Name

Names from certain regions or languages may contain prefixes, for example von, van, du, etc. Depending on the prefix and the geographic region, sometimes these are considered part of the first name and sometimes part of the last name.

Citavi's Editor can help you format names properly. Open it by clicking a name and selecting Edit.

If the prefix is to be considered part of the first name, enter it in the Prefix field; otherwise, list it in Last Name field. If you do not wish to use the Editor to format the name, please note the following rules:

In German-speaking areas, prefixes are attached to the person's first name:

Prefixes are attached to the last name if prepositions and articles are placed before the surname:

Prefixes are attached to the last name in Luxembourgian names:

In English-speaking areas, prefixes are attached to the last name

The Scottish "Mac/Mc" is always part of a last name:

In French, Italian and Spanish names, as with names of Latin origin, prefixes are attached to the last name: