How to Edit a Public Service Announcement for Radio

In commercial radio, public service announcements (PSAs) flood in literally every day. You should adopt a standardized style in presenting these announcements to the audience of your station. Follow these steps to create a uniform style on air when reading them.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Using the information supplied to you, determine the "Five W's." That is-- Who, What, Where, When and Why. Your presentation of the message will essentially be just these important facts. Avoid reading incoming announcements as they are written when received.

2. Put the facts you've pulled out of the message into your own words, but stick to the facts.

3. Let the "Five W's" roll out as you read. Example:
   "Fire company (Who) is having a bake sale (What) at the fire hall (Where) on Sunday (When). Proceeds benefit the Department Fund (Why)."

4. Frame your announcement with your own station information, perhaps your station ID or call letters and calling attention to the announcement before and your name and a music tease with the call letters after.

Tips & Warnings

• If in contact with someone who sends announcements, ask that they send you just the facts about their message.
• Suggest that the contact person use the delivery method (postal mail, email, fax, phone, personal drop off) that works best for you. Frequently, it will work to their benefit, too.
• Do not read PSA copy verbatim that could mislead the audience or suggest a station or personal endorsement of the event.