Lesson

When to use a factoid…

• You have some interesting ideas, but not quite enough to make a full article.
• You want to present a list or a series of bullet points.
• You want to add interest or highlight a certain aspect of your article.
• You want to present stats or facts that readers can see at a glance.

Did you know…

• Factoids are used not only in journalism, but in business presentations, sales pitches, advertisements, textbooks, pamphlets, and even Sunday School books?
• Factoids make great study guides! Try making factoids on notecards the next time you have a big test coming up. It really helps!

Factoids need to be in a yearbooker’s toolbox!

Factoids are a graphic way to “do” copy. They trick the eye into stopping to read. When you combine the copy of a factoid with eye-popping graphic elements (pictures, borders, color, clipart), you get a visual package that delivers information quickly and effectively.

Where to place a factoid…

Anywhere on your page, but they tend to “like” corners.

A Sample of a Simple Sports Factoid

Factoids are a quick way to publish stats, like win-loss records. Imagine writing out this info for an article…how tedious!

A More Appealing Sports Factoid

Highlighting the victories (with bold print) adds instant pop and increased readability. Layering a simple graphic can look sharp. Incorporating a photo that’s been treated with special editing effects will add interest.