Not a PR expert but find yourself, for whatever reason, called upon to write a release? Fear not. Learn the template and fill in the blanks and it's as easy as that.

People reading press releases generally don't have a lot of time or interest in figuring out what you're trying to announce, so first and foremost, put the company logo or letterhead, address and phone number prominently at the top of the document, along with PRESS RELEASE, centered and bold. If it's an immediate release, say that as well: otherwise, say "Release XX/XX/XXXX." Put contact names and numbers beneath.

Next, the headline should be bold and centered as well, one that's concise yet descriptive and exciting.

For the body, begin with the city and date from where the release is originating. Then you get the body. Generally, the first paragraph the first graf should explain what the release is about, briefly. Include more detail in the second and following grafs, along with a quote: the more interesting the better. PR execs might think they know journalists but you know as well as anybody else that "This is an exciting time for Burger King" is not actually exciting at all. It's basic but make sure you're providing the reader with the who, what, when, etc. The last paragraph is a summary and background info on the company, with the company contact info again.

Remember that you're not writing for customers: you're writing for journalists, so you need to spin the release to make it seem like the topic is of potential interest to the readers. Also, keep it concise. You don't need to give all the dirty details, just the idea of what is going on.

Use a clear basic font and double space. If your press release exceeds one page (try not to let it, though), continue with 'more' and on the second page place 'Page Two' in the upper right hand corner. ### shows you're done. See! It's not that different from reporting. For examples galore, head to PR Newswire.

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