Subheadline

Definition

A subheadline is a secondary headline that provides additional context or information about the main headline of a press release. It often expands on the key message or theme presented in the main headline, helping to grab the reader's attention and encourage them to read further. This component is crucial in establishing clarity and interest, supporting the overall structure and format of press releases.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subheadlines typically follow the main headline and precede the lead paragraph in a press release.
2. They are usually written in a smaller font size than the main headline but should still stand out to draw attention.
3. Effective subheadlines often include keywords relevant to the topic to enhance search engine optimization (SEO).
4. A well-crafted subheadline can provide critical context that makes the main story more compelling and easier to understand.
5. Subheadlines help in breaking up text and making press releases easier to scan for busy journalists and readers.

Review Questions

• How does a subheadline enhance the effectiveness of a press release?
  • A subheadline enhances a press release's effectiveness by adding depth and context to the main headline, making it more engaging for readers. It captures attention while summarizing key points that support the primary message. This additional layer helps clarify the purpose of the release and can influence whether readers choose to continue engaging with the content.
• In what ways can subheadlines improve search engine optimization (SEO) for a press release?
  • Subheadlines can improve SEO for a press release by incorporating relevant keywords that search engines use to index content. By strategically placing these keywords in subheadlines, press releases are more likely to appear in search results when users look for information related to those terms. This not only increases visibility but also attracts more targeted traffic to the press release.
• Evaluate how subheadlines contribute to the overall clarity and readability of press releases, especially for journalists under tight deadlines.
  • Subheadlines play a critical role in enhancing clarity and readability by breaking up text into manageable sections that are easy to scan. For journalists working under tight deadlines, well-structured subheadlines allow for quick comprehension of key points without needing to read every detail. This makes it easier for reporters to determine if the content is relevant for their stories, ultimately increasing the chances of coverage.

Related terms

headline:

The primary title or heading of a press release that conveys the main message or news hook, designed to capture attention.

lead paragraph:

The opening paragraph of a press release that summarizes the most important information, answering the who, what, when, where, why, and how.

boilerplate:

A standardized paragraph included at the end of a press release providing background information about the organization or company issuing the release.