Do I need to clarify each chapter whose POV it is?

You do not need to explicitly label every chapter with the character’s name if your writing successfully establishes a distinct voice for each narrator. Readers are generally intuitive and will identify the speaker within the first few sentences based on their specific vocabulary, internal motivations, and unique way of perceiving the world. If your characters sound fundamentally different, the transition will feel natural rather than confusing. When you group multiple chapters from the same perspective, you create a narrative rhythm that anchors the reader. Abruptly switching perspectives too frequently can actually disrupt the emotional momentum of your story. As long as the shift is purposeful and clearly signaled by a change in focus or tone, the reader will adapt quickly. To test if your distinction is clear, try reading a page from each perspective aloud. If you find yourself struggling to identify who is speaking without looking at your notes, you may need to sharpen the characterization. Focus on highlighting their unique biases, sensory observations, or recurring themes. If the voices are sufficiently polarized, the reader will recognize the narrator instantly, regardless of whether the chapter is the first or the fourth in a sequence. If you remain concerned about reader confusion, consider using a subtle structural marker at the start of each chapter. This could be as simple as beginning with a detail that only that specific character would notice or a reaction to a previous event that reflects their specific personality. This approach provides clarity without the repetitive formality of headers or name tags. Trust your audience to follow the thread of your story as long as the internal logic of each character remains consistent.