Layout of a Press Release
Print Media Press Release Format

Learn more about the layout of a press release
by reading the guidelines below.

When you write a press release for publication in the print media, you will make the editor's job easier if you follow some simple guidelines. At the end of the day, the less work the editor has to do with your press release, the more likely it will get printed.

Layout of a Press Release:

• Put 'Press Release' clearly at the head of your paper to identify your piece correctly.



• Use a large basic style font to make reading easier.



• Use wide margins and double spacing. This is to allow the editor to make any notes to the typesetter.



• Check how many words you are likely to be allocated. You may find that it is only a few hundred, so writing five thousand will only result in the vast majority being discarded.



• Avoid jargon. If the editor does not understand your press release, heor she will not print it.



• Only write on one side of the paper. The editor can then see how the press release flows, and allows him to cut up the paper.



• If you do continue over more than one page, then put 'More follows' at the bottom of the first sheet. Place a shortened version of the headline, and the page number in the top right hand corner of any subsequent sheets. For example, 'Vaughan new author 2'.



• Put the word 'Ends', once you have finished. This signifies to the editor that the press release is complete. If you need to place notes to the editor, with background information perhaps, these should be after this.



• Always put your contact information at the end. This should include your name, a telephone number and email address. Due to the nature of print deadlines you need to be able to be contacted out of regular office hours, in case of queries.