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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