2.  Write down the key points that must be covered with the PSA.  Always try to answer the obvious questions of who, what, when, where, why and how

3.  Decide how to capture the audience's attention at the beginning of the PSA.  This can be done with ▪ humor or a quotation, ▪ by asking a question, ▪ a thought-provoking statement, ▪ sharing a fact, ▪ or any method that will make the audience want to listen. That will become the first part of the PSA.

4.  Draft out the PSA with all of the components in place.  Use words that will garner the public's attention and urge them to listen to the piece.  Time the drafted PSA  To make certain that it fits within the timeframe allowed.  If it doesn't, rewrite the PSA until it does.

5.  Determine who will record the PSA,  If the business or organization is required to provide their own "voice talent."  If the radio station will record it, send them the PSA for final approval.  If changes are required at the time of recording, perform the rewrite as suggested.

6.  PSA Writing Tips ▪ Keep a catchy opening statement. ▪ Radio spots are usually 15 to 30 seconds and TV spots are no more than 30 seconds. ▪ Include details in the PSA such as slogans, guarantees and an objective. ▪ If you are writing a PSA for an event, include location information and where to purchase tickets.

7.  Additional Tips & Warnings ▪ Write short, succinct sentences. ▪ Leave no obvious question unanswered. ▪ Listen to other radio PSAs to get a feel for how they should sound. ▪ Make certain that all information in the PSA is correct ▪ Do not lie or bend the truth in any way

8.  Peace Corp  (Click Here) (Click Here)  More PSA’s  (Click Here) (Click Here)

9.  Your assignment (Worth 25 pts)  Create an original :15 public service announcement  Use the format sheet provided in the syllabus to structure the PSA ▪ Timing is important (For every second you are off you will have 5 pts deducted from the total score) ▪ You will turn in ▪ Your PSA written out using the PSA Template ▪ Your PSA in an mp3 format (Flash drive or e-mail)