{"id":1844,"date":"2023-04-01T01:35:00","date_gmt":"2023-03-31T23:35:00","guid":{"rendered":"\/blog\/?p=1844"},"modified":"2026-03-28T19:25:12","modified_gmt":"2026-03-28T17:25:12","slug":"how-to-write-a-press-release-ap-style","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"\/blog\/how-to-write-a-press-release-ap-style.html","title":{"rendered":"How to write a press release AP style"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n

Writing a press release<\/a> is not as simple as the average person might think. It includes following a particular format (headline, date, location, summary, media use, information about the company), but also a set of standard writing style you should stick to. For example, you should create a proper AP style press release<\/strong> (Associated Press Style press release). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Any guesses on what that means? If not, keep on reading and find out how to make sure your press releases follow the standard rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that a well-crafted press release is a powerful PR tool that can benefit almost any business \u2014 from a small private medical clinic to a major link building agency like NeedMyLink.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is a Press Release Format in AP Style?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

An AP style press release means an Associated Press<\/strong>-style press release. The Associated Press is one of the largest nonprofit news agencies in the world. Based in New York, the AP has editing and style rules that print news publications follow. It publishes a style guide every year that instructs journalists how to format their text for AP content. The purpose is that all sides of content presentation are standard, no matter who is writing the story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"What<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While AP style rules aren\u2019t the only recommended rules to stick to, they are the most commonly followed in the journalism and media industry. The Associated Press also has  set special standards for press releases, which will be discussed further.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Should You Stick to AP Style Writing a Press Release?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Yes, it seems trivial. Who cares if you apply all the AP\u2019s suggestions correctly? Well, first, editors do. And since you want them to buy your story, you need to follow their rules. Sounds convincing, doesn\u2019t it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Second, read this message:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Numismatic and Philatelic Office of the Governorate of Vatican City will issue thousands of sets of four stamps, each stamp featuring a detail from the painting \u201cResurrection of Christ\u201d by Perugino, and 220,000 copies of a leaflet.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

Does this information grab you? Are you interested in reading further this post? Have you seen this story anywhere in the media? Neither have I. If you want to avoid such issues, follow the rules, described below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Following a strict AP press release format is crucial. A story that includes clear writing and newsworthy content deserves attention. So, don\u2019t ignore the formulaic structure of press releases. There is nothing wrong if you haven\u2019t written a press release yet. Checking out an AP style press release example is a great way to get inspired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Get<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Rules for a AP Style Press Release<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Because a press release must be concise, you have to put your attention to each element. Referencing the AP Stylebook is a great way to ensure all press release elements are met, ultimately increasing your chances of having your story published. Using AP style will show a high level of professionalism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Rules<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

There are two sets of rules, which relate to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. The content of the certain press release<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. The format for each section of the press release<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Here are the key rules all journalists and copywriters must pay attention to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Headlines<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The headline<\/a> is key for catching attention and gaining an audience. It is crucial because it tells readers what the post is about, and it should be convincing to grab the reader\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    A strong first paragraph<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The opening paragraph, or the lead, must give you an idea of the point of the press release.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The five Ws of journalism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    A press release is concise and highlights an important piece of information. That\u2019s why an opening paragraph of a press release should cover the five Ws:<\/p>\n\n\n\n