Press Releases Press Release Structure and Format

Question 1

Where does the dateline appear in a standard press release?

Accepted Answer

At the start of the first body paragraph

Answer

The dateline appears at the beginning of the first paragraph and includes the city and date of release.

Question 2

What information does the media contact section of a press release contain?

Accepted Answer

Name, phone number, and email of the PR contact

Answer

The media contact section gives journalists a direct point of contact for questions, interviews, or additional information.

Question 3

What is the standard placement of the company logo on a press release?

Accepted Answer

Top of the document, usually in the header

Answer

The company logo typically appears at the top of the press release to immediately identify the issuing organization.

Question 4

Which section immediately follows the headline in a press release?

Accepted Answer

Subheadline or lead paragraph

Answer

After the headline comes the subheadline (optional) or the lead paragraph, which delivers the core news.

Question 5

What is the correct format for a press release dateline city?

Accepted Answer

New York, NY

Answer

AP Style uses title case for city names and standard two-letter postal abbreviations for US states.

Press Releases Practice Test