Press Releases Introduction to Press Release 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which element of a press release tells journalists the earliest date the story can be published?
- Dateline
- Embargo notation (Correct answer)
- Boilerplate
- Headline
Correct answer: Embargo notation
An embargo notation specifies the date and time before which journalists must not publish the information.
Question 2: What is the standard recommended length for a press release?
- 100–200 words
- 400–600 words (Correct answer)
- 800–1,000 words
- 1,500+ words
Correct answer: 400–600 words
A press release is typically 400–600 words, enough to cover key facts without overwhelming editors.
Question 3: The phrase 'For Immediate Release' at the top of a press release means:
- The story is exclusive to one outlet
- Journalists may publish the information right away (Correct answer)
- The company requires editorial approval before publishing
- The release is embargoed for 24 hours
Correct answer: Journalists may publish the information right away
'For Immediate Release' signals that there is no embargo and media can publish the content as soon as they receive it.
Question 4: Which section of a press release typically contains background information about the issuing organization?
- Lead paragraph
- Dateline
- Boilerplate (Correct answer)
- Quote block
Correct answer: Boilerplate
The boilerplate is a standardized paragraph at the end that provides a brief description of the company or organization.
Question 5: A press release written in the 'inverted pyramid' style places information in what order?
- Chronological order from oldest to newest
- Most important facts first, least important last (Correct answer)
- Least important facts first, most important last
- Alphabetical order by topic
Correct answer: Most important facts first, least important last
The inverted pyramid structure leads with the most newsworthy information so editors can cut from the bottom without losing key facts.
Question 6: What does the '###' symbol at the end of a press release signify?
- The release is classified confidential
- There is a second page attached
- The document has ended (Correct answer)
- The quote needs verification
Correct answer: The document has ended
Three pound signs (###) are a traditional journalistic notation indicating the end of a press release.
Question 7: Which of the following is the PRIMARY audience for a press release?
- General consumers
- Company shareholders
- Journalists and editors (Correct answer)
- Government regulators
Correct answer: Journalists and editors
Press releases are written for journalists and editors who decide whether to cover the story in their publication.
Press Releases Introduction to Press Release 2
Which element of a press release tells journalists the earliest date the story can be published?