Writing tools - How to write a press release
The secret is to use the basic rules of newswriting.
Do this, and journalists will feel comfortable with your press release right away. You will also get your message across clearly.
Tell your story in the first sentence or two. Fail here, and your reader will push the delete button.
Provide more detail as you move down the page, so a reader can stop at any point and still get the basic story.
Include quotes. People are most likely to listen an independent expert.
Keep your press release to two pages. If you need to include a lot of information, provide an additional document (a "backgrounder" or FAQs).
GIve any immediately relevant details in a section called “notes to editors”. This is the place for any background information that is crucial for the credibility of your story. Cite your references here, include the details of your study design, or explain the history behind your campaign.
Journalists need to ask questions. Make sure they can find you, by including a name, email address and phone number at the end of your release.
