What is a press release?

A press release is fundamentally a written statement that is provided to the media to announce something newsworthy. It serves as a tool to communicate information, such as events, product launches, or company news, to journalists and media outlets. The purpose of a press release is to generate media coverage and inform the public through news channels.

The content of a press release is typically structured to include a headline, an introductory paragraph summarizing the news, subsequent paragraphs providing detailed information, and often a quote from a key individual within the organization. This format makes it easy for journalists to read quickly and decide if the information is relevant enough for their audience.

This definition clearly illustrates why this option is the most accurate. In contrast, a financial report targets company stakeholders and focuses on financial performance, while a promotional video leans more towards visual marketing rather than news dissemination. An advertisement, while also promotional, is specifically meant for targeting consumers without the intent of generating media coverage like a press release does. Thus, the role and purpose of a press release distinctly align with the choice that identifies it as a written statement provided to the media.