Headlines, introductions and summaries

Aeon News gives editors several levels of introductory copy. Each should have a purpose rather than being filled simply because a field exists.

Standard and alternative headline

The standard headline is the article’s canonical title. Alternative headline can provide a shorter, more direct version for the front page or latest-news list.

It should preserve the same claim and tone, make sense without extra context, avoid introducing unsupported assertions and fit its intended placement.

Standfirst and full-width introduction

The normal standfirst summarises the central news or thesis. Full-width introduction is intended for a more prominent opening above the lead image, especially for investigations, interviews, analysis and long-form work.

Do not use identical copies in both fields. If the full-width introduction is active, it can establish a broader frame while the normal standfirst remains concise for reuse elsewhere.

Four summary points

Summary point 1–4 creates a rapid overview. Use it when a sequence has several clear parts, an investigation has distinct findings, readers need context before a long article, or a developing story contains several new decisions.

Each point should communicate one independent fact. Avoid four versions of the same sentence and do not promise more than the reporting supports.

Information and fact boxes

The Information box can hold definitions, timelines, technical facts, methodology, links or supplementary context that would interrupt the main narrative. Give the box a clear heading, keep paragraphs short and attribute external information.

Headline style as an editorial signal

The platform includes multiple headline treatments, from heavy news styles to lighter typography suited to culture, columns or long reads. Treat this as editorial language and define consistent internal rules for when a section may depart from the default.