Final answer:
The sex written across the top of the Punnett square depends on the species being crossed, while the gene symbols at the top of each column denote the alleles contributed by one parent. The gene symbols at the left of each row denote the alleles contributed by the other parent.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a Punnett square for the F1 generation of a classic simple Mendelian cross, the sex written across the top of the square can be either male or female, depending on the particular species being crossed. The gene symbols at the top of each column denote the alleles contributed by one parent, while the gene symbols at the left of each row denote the alleles contributed by the other parent. These gene symbols are used to represent the different possible combinations of alleles that can occur in the offspring.