Organizations constantly try to shape what journalists cover. A press release is an official written statement issued to the media to announce news, provide information, or offer a position on an issue.

Standard releases include a headline, dateline, lead summarizing the announcement, supporting detail, quotes from officials, and contact information. They are distributed by email, wire services, or online newsrooms. Journalists treat them as tips and source material, not as finished stories.

Over-reliance on press-release language produces weak, promotional coverage. Strong reporters use the release as a starting point for independent questions and verification. Still, a clear, factual release can efficiently convey basic information that the public needs and reduce simple errors about names, titles, and dates.

• Official statement issued to the media
• Announces news or provides an organizational position
• Used by journalists as a starting point only
• Should be independently verified before publication