Creating Effective Leaflets - Tips

Before you begin

• Think about what you want your leaflet to achieve, and the message you want to communicate.
• Consider the audience and decide what depth of information to include.
• Write down the key points, using bullet points or sub-headings.

Design

• Sketch out a draft on paper first.
• Choose an accessible format eg Microsoft Word or Powerpoint.
• Make use of templates.
• Use a design that will appeal to your audience.

Structure

• Use a title that will grab attention, and create an eye-catching front cover.
• Include an introduction, summarising the leaflet's objective.
• Use subheadings and keep relevant information together.
• Short sentences and bullet points are more effective than long paragraphs.

Style

• Use a readable font such as Arial or Verdana.  The suggested minimum font size is 12.
• Make use of white space and avoid crowding.
• Use colours that reflect your brand, and don't overdo their use.
• For best effect, use images sparingly.  Ensure they are copyright-free.

Format 

• A brochure style leaflet is better if the text has a particular order - otherwise a trifold leaflet is a good option.
• Remember to include a disclaimer about providing the leaflet in alternative formats.

Language

• Use clear language and avoid technical jargon.
• Use active phrases, eg 'Call us this week' rather than, 'Call us'.
• Words and phrases known to catch people's attention include, 'learn', 'free', 'discover', 'easy', 'enjoy', 'new', 'exciting', 'how to'. (2)
• Proofread!

References

• Remember to reference your sources.

Bibliography

• How to design the perfect leaflet, Fastprint https://www.fastprint.co.uk/blog/how-to-design-the-perfect-leaflet.html (accessed 21.12.2018)
• Designing an effective leaflet, Print and Digital Associates http://www.printanddigitalassociates.co.uk/blog/latest-magazine-published/ (accessed 03.03.2020)
• How to make a leaflet (with pictures), wikiHow https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Leaflet (accessed 21.12.2018)