Mastering the AP style press release format elevates credibility and ensures your announcement reaches journalists and readers without distraction. This guide walks through a real-world press release AP style example and shows how each element supports clarity, professionalism, and impact.
Use the structured summary to quickly compare core components, from headline style to contact details, so you can replicate the format with confidence for any news story.
| Element | AP Style Requirement | Example Value | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headline | Title case, present tense, no quotation marks | Company Launches Renewable Energy Initiative | Grabs attention and fits wire service standards |
| Dateline | City, State abbreviation, day month year | NEW YORK, NY, 18 Oct. 2025 | Signals timeliness and geographic origin |
| Lead paragraph | Who, what, when, where, why in one sentence | GreenFuture Inc. announced the initiative Monday to reduce urban emissions. | Delivers the core news up front for scanners |
| Boilerplate | Standard company description near the end | GreenFuture Inc. powers sustainable cities through clean technology. | Provides context and reinforces brand identity |
| Media Contact | Name, title, phone, email, hours | Alex Morgan, 212-555-0198, press@greenfuture.com, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET | Makes follow-up effortless for journalists |
Writing The Headline In Ap Style
In a press release AP style example, the headline uses title case and stays concise to pass editorial filters. Avoid lowercase connectors unless they are four letters or fewer, and do not wrap the headline in quotation marks.
Active verbs and specific nouns work best, so highlight the action and the outcome. This approach makes the announcement clear at a glance and increases the likelihood that editors will run the wire as written.
Keep the focus on the news value, not marketing hyperbole. By aligning your headline with AP conventions, you signal respect for the journalist’s workflow and reduce the chance of rewriting or rejection.
Structuring The Lead And Body
The lead sentence in a press release AP style example answers who, what, when, where, and why in a single line. Place the most newsworthy detail first, then layer supporting facts in descending order of importance.
Body paragraphs stay short, typically one to three sentences, and avoid dense blocks of text. Use active voice, standard punctuation, and numerals for numbers above nine to maintain readability across diverse publications.
Quotations should feel human and add perspective, not just repeat the headline. Attribute each quote clearly and keep the language tight so that editors can lift sections without heavy editing.
Formatting And Distribution Nuances
AP style formatting includes double-spacing, one-inch margins, and a standard font such as Times New Roman 12 pt. Release the text as a plain document or PDF depending on the wire service’s instructions.
Place the dateline at the top left, followed by the headline in all caps on the left. Include a dash or # symbol before the subject line when required, and always add a boilerplate and media contact block at the end.
Before distribution, run a checklist for spelling, dates, URLs, and phone numbers. Consistent formatting reduces friction with newsrooms and increases the chance your press release AP style example will be picked up and published as written.
Key Takeaways For AP Style Press Releases
- Use title case headlines with active verbs and no quotation marks.
- Lead with the most newsworthy facts in a single, tight paragraph.
- Keep body paragraphs short and attribute quotes clearly.
- Follow formatting rules: double-spaced, standard font, clear margins.
- Include a complete dateline, boilerplate, and accurate media contact.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I write a dateline in AP style for a press release?
Use the city, state abbreviation in all caps, and the day followed by the month abbreviated. Place the dateline at the top left under the headline to signal where and when the news originated.
Should I italicize company names in the headline or body of a press release?
Do not italicize company names or job titles in AP style. Plain text with standard capitalization ensures compatibility across wire services and publication platforms.
Can I include a call to action in the body of a press release AP style example?
Yes, you can include a clear call to action, such as visiting a URL or registering for an event, but keep it factual and concise. Position the call to action in the body or closing paragraph without exaggerated claims.
How long should a press release be to follow AP style best practices?
Aim for one page, around 300 to 500 words, with short paragraphs and direct language. Staying succinct respects journalists’ time and increases the likelihood that key details are quoted accurately.