When to Use a Byline
The use or non-use of a byline depends on the publisher’s editorial policy manual. In general, republished content for which the author owns the copyright — stuff in literary journals, for example, or guest op-ed pieces — generally always obtains a byline. Content that’s considered work-for-hire may or may not obtain a byline; usually, if it’s written by a staff member (as with a newspaper) it gets a byline, otherwise, it’s up to the editor’s discretion. Usually, staff editorials — because they represent the entire publication — do not obtain a byline, even if a single person wrote it. Newsletters from non-profit groups, schools and other community organizations usually always offer bylines. This practice not only promotes the writer but it reflects the community-oriented nature of the publication. In terms of what qualifies: Generally, anything more substantive than a paragraph or two.
Different Byline Styles
Bylines generally appear in one of three ways:
At the top of the story: Before the content begins, the cutline appears, usually separated by one or two blank lines before the story starts. Top-of-the-story cutlines generally only share data elements (name, title) without additional text or context.At the bottom of the story: At the conclusion of the story, a blank line or two separates the byline. In this format, bylines tend to be more comprehensive, potentially including contact information. Bottom-of-the-story bylines sometimes even render in complete sentences.As a cutout: Common for opinion columns, a cutout — often with a photo — serves as a visual insert into or beside the text of the content.
Bylines render the name or names of the contributors, at a minimum. Depending on the house style manual, they may also include a title (like “news writer”) or organizational affiliation (“president, chamber of commerce”). They may or may not include a tag like “by” or “written by” or something similar.
Best Practices for Developing Bylines
To make bylines stand out:
