If You’d Rather Write
- A. News releases
- Send releases only about real news!
- Write in the active voice in a journalistic style.
- Limit releases to no more than one page.
- Make the hook the headline and lead (2-3 short sentences).
- Present the most important information first. Put names and institutions in the last paragraph.
- Include great quotes (usually in 2nd, 4th, and last paragraph).
- Put your media contact’s information on top of page.
- Mention available photographs or sound.
- E-mail the release embedded in your message, not as an attachment.
- Abbreviate the headline for your subject line; try for a 5-word hook.
- B. Letters to the editor
- Can have high readership.
- Typically amplify a point made in a RECENT article or suggest a different opinion.
- Can rebut another's opinion or correct an important mistake.
- Generally are limited to 150 words.
- Must include your real name, address, phone number (which will not be printed).
- Can mention your academic credentials and expertise (could list title with signature).
- C. Op-eds
- Test your idea on different people. Do they care?
- Limit your piece to 500-700 words.
- Focus on one aspect of one issue.
- Find a local connection.
- Support your argument with a mix of facts, quotes, and examples.
- Write in a lively style; your opinion should be strong.
- Use the following structure:
- Title.
- Introduction (3 short sentences).
- Body (develop each main point; generally 1 point per paragraph).
- Conclusion (restate main points; last line should be memorable).