How to Submit Articles to the Associated Press: A Comprehensive Guide for Freelancers

In the fast-paced world of journalism, getting your articles published by reputable news organizations like the Associated Press can be a game-changer. As a seasoned freelance writer with over a decade of experience, I've learned the ins and outs of submitting articles to the AP. In this guide, I'll share my expertise on how to navigate the process effectively.

Understanding the Associated Press

Before diving into the submission process, it's crucial to understand what the Associated Press is and why it's such a prestigious outlet for freelance writers. The AP is an American not-for-profit news agency that provides national and international news to newspapers, magazines, radio, and television stations. Being published by them can significantly boost your credibility and open doors to numerous opportunities.

Researching the Associated Press Guidelines

The first step in submitting articles to the AP is to familiarize yourself with their guidelines. These guidelines are designed to ensure that all submissions meet their standards for quality and relevance. Key aspects include:

• Subject Matter: The AP has specific beats or areas of focus, such as politics, sports, entertainment, etc. Make sure your article aligns with one of these beats.
• Word Count: While there's no strict word count requirement, most articles fall between 500 and 1,200 words.
• Style: The AP style guide is comprehensive and includes rules for grammar, punctuation, and formatting. Familiarize yourself with these rules before submitting.

Crafting Your Article

Once you understand the guidelines, it's time to focus on crafting your article. Here are some tips:

• Engage Your Audience: Start with a compelling hook that captures readers' attention.
• Be Concise: Avoid fluff and get straight to the point.
• Use Data and Examples: Support your arguments with relevant data or real-life examples.
• Stay Objective: Maintain an objective tone unless you're writing an opinion piece.

Submitting Your Article

Now that you have a well-crafted article ready to go, it's time to submit it:

1. Choose the Right Channel: The AP accepts submissions through its online portal or via email if you have a direct relationship with an editor.
2. Follow Instructions: Ensure you follow all submission instructions carefully.
3. Include Contact Information: Provide accurate contact details so editors can reach out if they have questions or need additional information.

Building Relationships

Networking is key in journalism. Here are some ways to build relationships with AP editors:

• Follow AP Editors on Social Media: Engage with them by commenting on their posts or sharing their articles.
• Attend Industry Events: These events provide opportunities to meet editors face-to-face.
• Write Guest Articles for Other Outlets: This can increase your visibility among editors.

Overcoming Rejection

Rejection is a part of life as a freelance writer. If your article isn't accepted by the AP, don't get discouraged:

• Seek Feedback: Ask for feedback from editors if possible.
• Revise and Resubmit: Use feedback to improve your article and resubmit it later.
• Keep Learning: Stay up-to-date with industry trends and continue honing your writing skills.

Conclusion

Submitting articles to the Associated Press requires dedication, research, and skill. By following these steps and continuously improving your writing craft, you'll increase your chances of success. Remember that persistence pays off in this industry—keep submitting until you achieve your goal!