News Release Form: Radio

Radio science reporters typically receive the same news releases sent to other media. However, the news directors of local radio stations may be sent public service announcements highlighting a special public lecture or other event at a scientific meeting. Here are some tips for preparing such announcements.

• Triple-space all copy on 8 1/2'' by 11'' white paper, using one side only. Start typing one-third of the way down the page. Leave wide margins.
• Be sure to give specific dates. If announcing an event of more than one day's duration, designate specific dates the release can be used (e.g. "For Use between July 4 and July 7" not "For Use between Monday and Thursday").
• Write copy for the voice, which means in a style more informal than copy for the eye. Use "don't" and "let's" instead of "do not" and "let us." A good rule is to be informal but not breezy. Double-check your copy for tongue-twisters. As a test, read your copy out loud.
• Give the phonetic spelling of names or technical terms in your release that are difficult to pronounce.
• Never abbreviate or hyphenate words.

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