Press Release Format
Organize your text using an inverted
pyramid: start with most important and go to least important.
Paper: Use plain white 8.5 x 11 inch paper
Format: Type on only one side of the paper. Double space the copy,
using upper and lower case letters. Frame the copy with generous margins.
Indent each paragraph.
Upper Left: In upper left corner, single space your name, address, AND
telephone number.
Release Instructions: Always type "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE".
Indicate "Hold for Release" and the date if you submit copy early.
However, don't expect editor to act as filing clerk by sending in a long time
before the event.
Date: The date should be on all material sent.
Heading: The heading is usually left to the editor. Leave space on
release for headline. If you can compose a succinct, catchy phrase that
captures the essence of the release, use it.
Content length: If there is more than one page to release, write
"MORE" at the bottom of the page. Don't end a page in the middle of
a sentence or paragraph. "Slug" each page after the first (A
"slug includes "date, topic, and page number" on the upper
left corner of all pages except the first). Conclude release with an end mark
###.
Handling
- It is a good idea to visit your local
publications to get to know the copy editor and his/her preferences so
that you can increase your chances of getting published.
- Send in a week ahead, if possible, with
release date of when you want it published.
- Notify papers about errors in their printing
of your information.
- Use tact and diplomacy when dealing with
editors.
- Do all you can to make your work easy for them
to use.
Style and Mechanics
- Be careful about grammar and spelling.
- (CQ) after special spellings indicates to news
people that spelling is correct as given.
- Avoid jargon, foreign words, and fancy speech.
- Use active verb tense.
- Identify people by first name, middle initial,
last name. If using a nickname, put it in the appropriate place within
the person's name in quotation marks.
Proofread, never staple the pages, and
ALWAYS have more than one copy of the release for YOUR files.
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Strategies for Advertising…
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