Capitalized:
* When used as part of a proper noun:
* North America, South America, East Asia, West Africa
* The North Pole, South Pole, East Coast, West Coast
* North Carolina, South Dakota, West Virginia, East Texas
* When referring to a specific region or direction with a definite article:
* The North, The South, The East, The West (e.g., "The North is known for its cold winters.")
Not capitalized:
* When used as general directions:
* We went north, south, east, west.
* Turn left at the next street and then go east for two blocks.
* When used in a non-specific way:
* The weather is warm in the south.
* We live in the west of the city.
In summary, use capitalization for North, South, East, and West when referring to a specific region or direction with a definite article or as part of a proper noun. Otherwise, use lowercase.