How to Create a Newspaper Ad Layout
- 1). Ask your newspaper representative for the "spec sheet" (specifications) for the type of advertisement you want to purchase. Newspapers commonly offer quarter, half and full-page ads--the exact size varies depending on the periodical. Specs you'll need to know other than the size include the resolution of the image and file format required (such as TIF or JPG).
- 2). Create a blank document in a graphic layout program. Common programs you can use for this purpose include Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, and Quark XPress.
- 3). Size the blank document according to the newspaper's specs and assure that the image resolution is set at the minimum requirement as described by the spec sheet.
- 4). Fill the background with white, black, or gray if this ad is for a black-and-white page. If you purchased a color ad, pick a solid color that grabs attention, like red, blue, or yellow. A bright color will draw the reader's eyes to your ad, especially if the majority of the newspaper page is black and white.
- 5). Type a bold headline, 10 words or less, across the top describing the product or service. Make the headline font about 1.5 times as large as the rest of the ad. So for example, if you choose to use 10 point standard font throughout the ad, set the headline at 15 points. Stick to one or two standard fonts (like Times New Roman or Arial). Elaborate fonts can make the ad difficult to read.
- 6). Enter brief information about the product or service in your standard sized font (10 points in the last step's example). Avoid long paragraphs--just stick to a few detailed bullet points. Include information about any special offers.
- 7). Insert a "call to action" line in the advertisement to get the reader to act. For instance, "Call us today!"
- 8). Enter full contact information at the bottom of the newspaper ad, including address (if for a retail store), website (if applicable) and phone number.
- 9). Insert a photo that complements your advertisement if you want. For instance, a fine leather jacket would complement an ad for a coat sale.
- 10
Save the file in the format required by the spec sheet and email it to the ad sales representative at the paper.
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