Happy 11th Birthday Wishes
| | | |

Happy 11th Birthday Wishes for the Amazing Preteen Year

At 11 years old, many children begin calling themselves preteens, even if they are not quite teenagers yet. It’s often the last full year before the excitement and changes that come with turning 13, making this birthday feel surprisingly important. Friendships become a bigger part of daily life, hobbies become more personal, and many 11-year-olds start wanting birthday messages that feel a little more grown-up than the ones they loved as younger kids. That’s why the right 11th birthday wish should celebrate both the fun of childhood and the growing sense of identity that makes this age unique. Whether you’re writing to your child, grandchild, sibling, cousin, or friend, this collection offers thoughtful, funny, encouraging, and faith-filled messages created especially for someone celebrating this one-of-a-kind preteen birthday.


Why the 11th Birthday Is a Special Milestone

An eleventh birthday marks far more than adding another candle to a cake. At 11 years old, children begin developing stronger personalities, greater independence, and deeper friendships. According to child development guidance from organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and UNICEF, preteens become more confident thinkers, enjoy taking on responsibilities, and begin exploring their unique talents. This makes turning 11 an important Birthday milestone that deserves meaningful celebrations and thoughtful words. During this stage of growing up, children also strengthen their Self-confidence, build Personal growth, and develop stronger values through encouragement from their Family, teachers, and friends. A few sincere words can inspire them long after the party ends.

A birthday message for an eleven-year-old should celebrate both who they are today and who they are becoming tomorrow. Instead of simply saying “Happy Birthday,” you can remind them how kind, talented, and loved they are. That combination creates unforgettable Birthday greetings filled with Love, Joy, Happiness, and Encouragement. Whether you’re writing Birthday card messages, planning a Birthday celebration, or searching for Birthday wishes for kids, remember that genuine words often become treasured Birthday memories for years to come.

Why Age 11 MattersWhy It Is Important
Greater independenceChildren become more responsible.
Stronger friendshipsSocial connections become more meaningful.
Creative thinkingImagination and problem-solving improve.
Growing confidenceChildren believe more in their abilities.
New dreamsThey begin setting personal goals.
Emotional maturityBetter understanding of feelings and empathy.

Heartfelt Happy 11th Birthday Wishes

Nothing compares to a heartfelt message that comes straight from the heart. The best Happy 11th Birthday wishes celebrate a child’s kindness, dreams, and wonderful personality while reminding them how deeply they are loved. These meaningful wishes are perfect for birthday cards, family gatherings, school celebrations, and thoughtful letters. Whether you’re looking for Heartfelt birthday wishes, Meaningful birthday messages, or a Personalized birthday message, these examples will help you express genuine affection.

  • Happy 11th birthday! May your smile shine brighter every single day.
  • Wishing you endless happiness, laughter, and unforgettable adventures.
  • Happy birthday to an amazing kid who makes everyone proud.
  • May your dreams grow bigger with every birthday candle.
  • Keep believing in yourself because amazing things are waiting for you.
  • Happy birthday! May today be as wonderful as your heart.
  • You bring happiness wherever you go. Never stop shining.
  • I hope your birthday is filled with love, fun, and sweet surprises.
  • Stay curious, kind, and brave throughout this exciting year.
  • May your future be as bright as your beautiful smile.
  • Happy birthday! Your kindness makes the world a better place.
  • Keep chasing your dreams because you can achieve anything.
  • Wishing you another year full of exciting discoveries.
  • May your birthday be filled with family, friends, and laughter.
  • Happy 11th birthday! Keep growing into the incredible person you’re meant to become.
  • Every birthday reminds us how lucky we are to have you.
  • May your heart always stay full of hope and joy.
  • Have the happiest birthday filled with magical moments.
  • You deserve every smile this world can offer.
  • May this year bring success, confidence, and unforgettable adventures.

Also read: /happy-10th-birthday-wishes/

Happy 11th Birthday Wishes

Short and Simple 11th Birthday Wishes

Sometimes the shortest message carries the biggest meaning. A simple greeting works perfectly inside greeting cards, gift tags, text messages, or social media posts. These Short birthday messages, Simple birthday wishes, and Birthday greetings are easy to remember while still making a child feel truly special. Even just a few heartfelt words can make someone’s Special day brighter.

  • Happy 11th birthday! Have the best day ever.
  • Wishing you smiles all year long.
  • Stay happy and keep shining.
  • Happy birthday, superstar!
  • Enjoy every birthday surprise today.
  • Have a magical birthday!
  • Dream big and smile often.
  • Happy birthday to my champion.
  • Happy birthday to my princess.
  • Shine bright every day.
  • Keep being amazing.
  • You make every day brighter.
  • Celebrate every wonderful moment.
  • Have an unforgettable birthday.
  • Sending hugs and birthday smiles.
  • Enjoy your cake and candles.
  • Keep growing and dreaming.
  • Wishing you lots of happiness.
  • Stay kind and keep smiling.
  • Happy birthday! Have endless fun.

Funny Happy 11th Birthday Wishes

Every birthday deserves laughter, especially when someone is celebrating their eleventh year. Funny messages help create joyful memories that children love sharing with friends and family. A lighthearted joke about birthday cake, presents, or growing older can instantly make the celebration even more enjoyable. These Funny birthday wishes, Birthday celebration, and Birthday surprises add extra smiles without losing their warmth.

  • Happy 11th birthday! You’re officially one year closer to doing your own laundry.
  • Don’t eat too much cake…unless you save me some.
  • You’re growing faster than your birthday candles.
  • Congratulations on surviving another year of homework.
  • Have a birthday that’s bigger than your appetite.
  • Cake first. Vegetables tomorrow.
  • Keep smiling because birthdays are calorie-free.
  • You’re eleven times cooler today.
  • Happy birthday! Time to unwrap every present twice.
  • May your cake be bigger than your homework.
  • You’re aging like a superhero.
  • Today, you make the rules…almost.
  • Enjoy your birthday before bedtime arrives.
  • Stay awesome and slightly mischievous.
  • Another birthday means another excuse for extra dessert.
  • Hope your presents need two hands to carry.
  • Eleven looks fantastic on you.
  • Don’t count the candles. Count the fun.
  • Birthday magic begins with cake.
  • Laugh louder than everyone today.

Inspirational 11th Birthday Wishes

An eleventh birthday is the perfect time to encourage confidence, kindness, and hope. Children at this age begin discovering their talents, building friendships, and dreaming about the future. A few inspiring words can motivate them to believe in themselves while reminding them that every challenge is another opportunity to grow. These Inspirational birthday wishes, Positive affirmations, Motivation, and Self-belief help celebrate not just another birthday but a bright future filled with endless possibilities.

  • Happy 11th birthday! Never stop believing in yourself.
  • Dream big because your future is full of possibilities.
  • You are stronger than you know.
  • Keep learning and never stop asking questions.
  • Your kindness is your greatest strength.
  • Every new day is another chance to shine.
  • Believe in your dreams because they matter.
  • Your smile changes the world around you.
  • Stay brave even when things feel difficult.
  • Keep reaching higher every year.
  • Great adventures begin with small steps.
  • Never stop being curious.
  • Your future is bright because you work hard.
  • Keep your heart full of hope.
  • Shine bright wherever life takes you.
  • Be proud of every achievement.
  • Your best days are still ahead.
  • Continue spreading happiness everywhere.
  • Believe you can because you already have what it takes.
  • Happy birthday! Keep becoming the amazing person you were born to be.

Happy 11th Birthday Wishes for Boys

Every boy deserves to hear words that remind him how capable, brave, and loved he is. At 11 years old, many boys are discovering new hobbies, building confidence, and dreaming about exciting futures. Whether he enjoys sports, science, music, gaming, or outdoor adventures, thoughtful Happy 11th birthday wishes for boys can encourage him to keep learning and growing. A meaningful message celebrates not only another birthday but also his kindness, determination, and unique personality. The best Birthday wishes for kids inspire boys to stay curious, work hard, and believe they can accomplish great things.

If you’re searching for Happy 11th birthday wishes for son, Happy 11th birthday wishes for grandson, Happy 11th birthday wishes for nephew, or Happy 11th birthday wishes for brother, these messages are perfect for birthday cards, gifts, and speeches. They focus on Confidence, Dreams, Encouragement, and Birthday blessings while making every birthday celebration even more memorable.

  • Happy 11th birthday to my amazing champion. Keep reaching for the stars.
  • Wishing you endless adventures and exciting discoveries.
  • Happy birthday to the coolest eleven-year-old I know.
  • May every dream you have become reality.
  • Keep smiling because you brighten every room.
  • Stay brave and believe in yourself every day.
  • Have the most exciting birthday ever.
  • Happy birthday to a future leader.
  • Keep learning because your future is bright.
  • May your courage grow with every birthday.
  • You’re smart, kind, and incredibly talented.
  • Happy birthday to my little superhero.
  • Never stop exploring the world around you.
  • Wishing you success in everything you do.
  • Keep making your family proud.
  • Have an unforgettable birthday filled with laughter.
  • Stay strong and always be yourself.
  • May your heart stay full of happiness.
  • Dream big because nothing is impossible.
  • Happy 11th birthday! The best is still ahead.

Happy 11th Birthday Wishes for Girls

Every girl deserves birthday wishes that celebrate her intelligence, creativity, kindness, and beautiful heart. Turning eleven is an exciting chapter filled with growing independence, new friendships, and bigger dreams. Whether she loves reading, dancing, painting, sports, or exploring new ideas, thoughtful Happy 11th birthday wishes for girls remind her that she is capable of achieving wonderful things. Kind words today can become lasting memories tomorrow while helping build Self-confidence, Personal growth, and lasting happiness.

These wishes are perfect for anyone looking for Happy 11th birthday wishes for daughter, Happy 11th birthday wishes for granddaughter, Happy 11th birthday wishes for niece, or Happy 11th birthday wishes for sister. They also fit beautifully inside Birthday card messages, letters, and personalized gifts that celebrate this meaningful milestone.

  • Happy 11th birthday to my beautiful princess.
  • May your smile shine brighter every year.
  • Keep believing in your amazing dreams.
  • You’re kind, smart, and wonderfully unique.
  • Happy birthday to a girl who makes everyone smile.
  • Keep spreading kindness wherever you go.
  • Wishing you endless joy and laughter.
  • Stay confident because you’re truly special.
  • May today be filled with magical surprises.
  • Keep chasing every dream in your heart.
  • Happy birthday to an incredible young lady.
  • Shine bright like the star you are.
  • Never stop believing in yourself.
  • Your kindness makes the world happier.
  • Have a birthday filled with love and fun.
  • Keep growing into the amazing person you’re becoming.
  • Wishing you beautiful memories today.
  • May happiness follow you everywhere.
  • Have the sweetest birthday celebration ever.
  • Happy 11th birthday! Your future is full of wonderful possibilities.
Happy 11th Birthday Wishes

Happy 11th Birthday Wishes from Family

Family makes every birthday warmer and more meaningful. Whether the message comes from parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, or cousins, loving words remind a child they are surrounded by people who believe in them. Research from child development experts consistently shows that encouragement from family helps strengthen confidence, emotional well-being, and resilience during the preteen years. That makes heartfelt birthday messages more valuable than many people realize.

Whether you’re writing Happy 11th birthday wishes from parents, Happy 11th birthday wishes from grandparents, or a message from another close relative, your words become treasured Birthday memories. Celebrate your child’s Birthday milestone with love, encouragement, and gratitude while reminding them they always have a family cheering them on.

  • Happy birthday! Our family is proud of you every day.
  • Watching you grow has been life’s greatest gift.
  • May your heart always stay kind.
  • We love you more than words can say.
  • Happy birthday to our greatest blessing.
  • May your future be bright and joyful.
  • Thank you for filling our lives with happiness.
  • Keep believing in yourself.
  • We celebrate you today and always.
  • Happy birthday to the light of our family.
  • May every dream come true.
  • Keep smiling because your smile lights up our home.
  • You make our family complete.
  • Never forget how deeply you’re loved.
  • We wish you health, happiness, and success.
  • Happy birthday to our little miracle.
  • Keep growing with courage and kindness.
  • We will always support your dreams.
  • May every year be even better than the last.
  • Happy 11th birthday with all our love.

Happy 11th Birthday Wishes for Friends and Classmates

Friendships become especially meaningful around age eleven. School memories, classroom adventures, sports, birthday parties, and shared hobbies help children build lifelong connections. A thoughtful birthday message from a friend or classmate can make someone feel appreciated, included, and celebrated. Whether you’re writing inside a birthday card, sending a text, or posting online, kind words help create unforgettable moments.

These Happy 11th birthday wishes for friends are cheerful, encouraging, and easy to personalize. They celebrate Friendship, Joy, and all the fun that comes with growing up together.

  • Happy birthday to the best friend anyone could have.
  • Have an awesome birthday filled with fun.
  • Wishing you the coolest birthday ever.
  • Thanks for being such a great friend.
  • May your year be full of exciting adventures.
  • Keep smiling because you’re amazing.
  • Happy birthday to my favorite classmate.
  • You’re one of a kind.
  • Have the happiest birthday ever.
  • Hope your presents are as awesome as you are.
  • Keep making everyone laugh.
  • Enjoy every minute of your special day.
  • Here’s to another year of great memories.
  • Stay kind and keep shining.
  • Happy birthday to a wonderful friend.
  • May your birthday be unforgettable.
  • Keep dreaming big.
  • Thanks for always being there.
  • Let’s celebrate together soon.
  • Happy 11th birthday! Have the best year yet.

Religious, Prayerful, and Blessing-Filled 11th Birthday Wishes

For many families, birthdays are also moments of gratitude and prayer. A birthday blessing reminds a child that they are deeply loved by God and surrounded by hope. Faith-filled messages encourage kindness, courage, wisdom, and compassion while asking for God’s protection throughout the coming year. These Religious birthday wishes, Christian birthday blessings, and Birthday prayers are meaningful additions to cards, family gatherings, or church celebrations.

According to biblical teaching, children are precious gifts from God, and many families include Scripture-inspired blessings during birthdays. Messages centered on faith help children develop gratitude, hope, and compassion while celebrating another wonderful year of life.

  • Happy birthday. May God bless every step you take.
  • May the Lord guide and protect you always.
  • Happy 11th birthday. God’s plans for you are wonderful.
  • May your faith grow stronger every day.
  • Wishing you peace, joy, and God’s love.
  • May Jesus fill your heart with happiness.
  • May God bless your dreams and future.
  • Stay faithful and kind always.
  • God’s light will always shine upon you.
  • May you grow in wisdom and grace.
  • Happy birthday. May heaven watch over you.
  • May your heart always trust God’s plan.
  • Wishing you blessings beyond measure.
  • May every day bring new reasons to thank God.
  • God’s love surrounds you today and always.
  • Keep walking with faith and courage.
  • May your life reflect kindness and compassion.
  • Happy birthday. May God’s peace remain with you.
  • May your future be filled with divine blessings.
  • Have a joyful birthday surrounded by God’s endless love.
Happy 11th Birthday Wishes

Happy 11th Birthday Quotes and Sayings

A memorable quote can express feelings that ordinary words sometimes cannot. Whether you’re writing in a card, adding a message to a gift, or sharing a social media post, thoughtful Happy 11th Birthday wishes become treasured memories. At turning 11, children stand at the doorway between childhood and their teenage years. They are discovering new talents, building stronger friendships, and becoming more confident every day. A meaningful quote reminds them that every dream is worth chasing and every challenge is an opportunity to grow.

These inspiring 11th birthday quotes, Birthday greetings, and Meaningful birthday wishes are perfect for cards, speeches, and keepsakes. They celebrate Love, Kindness, Confidence, Dreams, and the joy of reaching another wonderful Birthday milestone.

  • Happy 11th birthday! Your brightest adventures are only beginning.
  • Eleven years of smiles deserve a lifetime of happiness.
  • Every birthday is another page in your amazing story.
  • Keep dreaming because your future is full of possibilities.
  • Happiness grows when you share it with others.
  • Be proud of who you are becoming.
  • Shine brighter than yesterday and dream bigger than tomorrow.
  • Kind hearts always leave the biggest footprints.
  • Believe in yourself because you are capable of wonderful things.
  • Every candle celebrates another year of courage and growth.
  • Your smile is your greatest superpower.
  • Stay curious because learning never ends.
  • Every dream begins with believing.
  • Today is your day to sparkle.
  • Kindness will always make you shine.
  • Great things begin with small steps.
  • Celebrate every little victory.
  • The best adventures are still waiting for you.
  • Your future is brighter than the birthday candles.
  • Happy birthday to an amazing kid with endless potential.

Happy 11th Birthday Captions for Instagram and Social Media

Today’s birthday celebrations often continue online. Parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends love sharing birthday photos filled with balloons, cake, gifts, and smiling faces. A creative caption adds personality to every picture while making the celebration even more memorable. Whether you’re posting on Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp, these Birthday captions, Instagram birthday captions, Facebook birthday wishes, and WhatsApp birthday status ideas are perfect for celebrating an unforgettable birthday.

Keep your captions cheerful, personal, and positive. Adding emojis, favorite memories, or a heartfelt sentence makes every post feel more authentic while creating lasting Birthday memories.

  • Happy 11th birthday to our shining star!
  • Officially eleven and loving every moment!
  • Cheers to another year of smiles and dreams.
  • Eleven looks absolutely amazing on you.
  • Growing smarter every single year.
  • Birthday magic starts today!
  • Keep shining, birthday superstar.
  • Happy birthday to my little champion.
  • Our princess turns eleven today!
  • Making birthday memories one smile at a time.
  • Cake, candles, and endless happiness.
  • Eleven years of love and laughter.
  • Here’s to another year of adventure.
  • Birthday smiles never go out of style.
  • Celebrating the sweetest eleven-year-old ever.
  • May today be full of surprises.
  • Another year older and even more awesome.
  • Keep dreaming big.
  • Best birthday ever begins today.
  • Happy 11th birthday!

Creative Ways to Wish Someone a Happy 11th Birthday

A thoughtful birthday wish becomes even more meaningful when you deliver it in a creative way. Instead of simply sending a text, you can surprise the birthday child with something unique that they’ll remember for years. Personal touches often mean more than expensive gifts because they show genuine effort and love. Whether you’re celebrating at home, school, or a party, there are many ways to make your Birthday celebration unforgettable.

Writing a heartfelt Birthday letter, creating a personalized scrapbook, recording a video message from family members, hiding birthday notes around the house, or designing a custom photo album all make wonderful surprises. You can also bake their favorite cake, organize a treasure hunt, create a memory jar filled with encouraging messages, or make a handmade Birthday card with photos from previous birthdays. Small gestures often become lifelong Birthday traditions.

Creative IdeaWhy Kids Love It
Handmade birthday cardPersonal and memorable
Memory jarEncouraging keepsake
Video greetingsFun surprise from loved ones
Birthday scavenger huntInteractive and exciting
Personalized birthday letterEmotional keepsake
Custom photo bookPreserves special memories
Balloon surpriseCreates excitement instantly
Birthday countdown boxMakes the celebration last longer

No matter how you celebrate, sincerity matters most. Children remember how people made them feel more than how much money was spent.


Birthday Gift and Party Ideas for an 11-Year-Old

Choosing the perfect birthday gift becomes more exciting at age eleven because children are developing individual interests. Some love science experiments while others enjoy sports, books, art, technology, music, or outdoor adventures. The best gifts encourage creativity, learning, confidence, and family time. Instead of focusing only on expensive presents, choose something that matches the child’s personality and hobbies.

Party themes can also make the day unforgettable. Popular ideas include outdoor adventure parties, movie nights, sports tournaments, craft workshops, baking parties, gaming competitions, escape room challenges, science experiments, camping under the stars, or swimming celebrations. Decorating with balloons, colorful banners, favorite snacks, and personalized birthday cakes creates an atmosphere filled with excitement and Joy.

Gift IdeaPerfect For
LEGO building setsCreative kids
Science experiment kitsCurious learners
Art suppliesYoung artists
Sports equipmentActive children
BooksPassionate readers
Board gamesFamily fun
Musical instrumentsFuture musicians
Personalized jewelryGirls and boys
Smart watch for kidsTechnology lovers
Adventure experienceLasting memories

The greatest birthday gift isn’t always something wrapped in paper. Spending quality time together, sharing laughter, and creating unforgettable moments often become the memories children treasure most.

Happy 11th Birthday Wishes

How to Write the Perfect 11th Birthday Message

Writing the perfect birthday message doesn’t require fancy words. The best messages sound sincere, personal, and encouraging. Begin by wishing them a happy birthday, mention something you genuinely admire about them, encourage them to follow their dreams, and finish with warm wishes for the year ahead. This simple formula creates messages that feel authentic instead of generic.

A thoughtful Personalized birthday message might mention a favorite hobby, a recent achievement, or a funny family memory. Parents may focus on love and pride, grandparents often share wisdom and blessings, while friends usually write cheerful, playful greetings. Whatever style you choose, let your words reflect your relationship with the birthday child.

Example:

“Happy 11th birthday! Watching you grow into such a kind, smart, and confident young person has been one of life’s greatest joys. Never stop believing in yourself because you have everything you need to achieve your dreams. May this year bring exciting adventures, wonderful friendships, good health, and countless reasons to smile. We love you so much and can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll accomplish.”


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is turning 11 considered a milestone birthday?

While 11 isn’t a traditional milestone like 13, 16, or 18, many families see it as an important preteen birthday. It marks the final stretch of childhood before the teenage years begin, making it a meaningful time to celebrate personal growth and new interests.

What kind of birthday message does an 11-year-old actually enjoy?

Most 11-year-olds appreciate messages that acknowledge they’re growing up without treating them like adults. A wish that mixes encouragement, humor, and recognition of their unique personality usually feels much more genuine than overly childish wording.

What are the best gifts for an 11-year-old who says they “don’t know what they want”?

This is a common age for changing interests. Creative hobby kits, bestselling book series, sports gear, room décor, STEM projects, art supplies, gift cards, or experience-based gifts like climbing, escape rooms, or amusement parks are often safer choices than traditional toys.

Should an 11th birthday party feel like a kids’ party or a teen party?

Many 11-year-olds are somewhere in between. Sleepovers, movie nights, gaming tournaments, DIY craft parties, baking challenges, pool parties, or outdoor adventures often match their interests better than character-themed celebrations.

Why do many parents call age 11 the “preteen year”?

Eleven is commonly viewed as the beginning of the preteen stage because children often start developing stronger opinions, closer friendships, and more mature interests. Although every child grows differently, many begin wanting greater independence around this age.

How long should an 11th birthday card message be?

A few thoughtful sentences are usually enough. Mention something you admire about the birthday child, celebrate their special day, and include a wish for the adventures, friendships, and opportunities waiting for them during their eleventh year.

What are some fun themes for an 11th birthday celebration?

Popular themes include glow parties, sports competitions, gaming nights, DIY spa parties, science experiments, scavenger hunts, outdoor camping, baking parties, and movie marathons. At this age, activities often matter more than elaborate decorations.

How can grandparents make an 11th birthday feel extra meaningful?

Along with a heartfelt birthday message, grandparents can share a favorite memory, write a letter for the future, create a small photo album, or start a birthday tradition that continues into the teen years. Personal keepsakes often become treasured memories later in life.

What Bible verse fits an 11th birthday well?

Verses that encourage wisdom, courage, and purpose are especially fitting for preteens. Jeremiah 29:11, Proverbs 3:5–6, Joshua 1:9, and Psalm 139:14 are popular choices because they remind children they are loved, guided, and created with purpose.

What makes an 11th birthday different from a 10th or 12th birthday?

Ten often celebrates reaching double digits, while twelve feels much closer to the teenage years. Eleven sits right in the middle—a unique age where many children begin thinking more independently while still enjoying the imagination and excitement of childhood, making birthday wishes that recognize both sides especially meaningful.


Conclusion

An eleventh birthday marks an exciting chapter filled with growth, confidence, curiosity, and endless possibilities. The right Happy 11th Birthday wishes can brighten a child’s day, strengthen their self-belief, and create memories they will treasure for years. Whether you choose a heartfelt message, a funny joke, an inspiring quote, a prayer, or a simple birthday caption, your words have the power to make someone feel truly loved.

As children step into this wonderful Pre-teen birthday milestone, they need encouragement, kindness, and support more than ever. Celebrate their unique personality, remind them to dream big, and let them know that their family and friends will always cheer them on. After all, the most meaningful birthday gift isn’t found inside a box. It’s the love, laughter, and heartfelt words shared by the people who matter most. Happy 11th birthday to every amazing eleven-year-old. May this special year bring endless happiness, exciting adventures, beautiful memories, and dreams that come true.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *