General Guidelines:
For both full videos and segments, titles and descriptions should be written in a way that is optimized for searchability. This means it should contain facts, not fluff. Our video platforms rely on the titles and descriptions to return accurate and meaningful search results.
Program Titles:
In general, program titles do not require editing. However, if a typo or punctuation error exists, that should be corrected.
Program Descriptions:
One of the following types of program descriptions will be provided by Infobase for every title:
1. Final Copy: Infobase will write this copy in-house, and it should not be altered by EdGate.
2. No Copy: If no copy is provided, EdGate will write copy. Please do not simply copy and paste descriptions of the film from the producer’s website.
3. Temp Copy: Temp Copy is not complete, and should be used as a reference for writing a comprehensive synopsis using Infobase style. It is often provided by the producers and has not been proofread, so be careful to proof all grammar and spelling.
Guidelines for Writing Descriptive Copy:
Word Count: Full-length description typically runs about 100 to 125 words.
Style: Infobase video description copy follows the Chicago Manual of Style.
Punctuation: Use curly quotes (“ ”), curly apostrophes (’), and genuine long dashes (—) when needed.
Non-U.S. Spelling: Programs with temp copy written in countries such as The UK, Australia or Canada may contain spelling that is not correct in the U.S. Please correct these. Examples include: Color/Colour, Program/Programme, Theater/ Theatre.
Mention it’s a video: Be sure to make a direct reference to the fact that it is video content by using words such as program/film/video/documentary. For example, we might say “In this video, Julia Child guides viewers through…” or “This program travels to a construction site on the Gulf Coast to see…” or “This episode of Modern Marvels reveals…”. Some producer copies may say “this DVD” or “this DVD set” or “this title”. Make sure to change DVD/DVD set/title into film/video/documentary.
Watch for Editorializing in Temp Copy: Temp copy that comes from the film's producer might include language such as “acclaimed, stunning, brilliant” – do not include that type of language, unless FMG says it’s ok in the Notes field (see “Notes Field” section below). Also be wary of language that sensationalizes or favors one side of a topic where there is room for debate.
Edit Temp Copy for Clarity: Descriptions should elaborate on vague information that cannot be assumed. For example, note the changes in blue for this title:
BEFORE—From producer's Web site:
Title: 101: Beef
Description: "There's nothing as good as a good piece of meat," and as Julia is quick to point out there is less and less really good (well marbled and aged) beef to be found. Hangar Steak, Skirt Strip, Flank and Ribeye. Sautéed ribeye steak for Steak Diane, New York strip steak with crushed pepper (Steak au Poivre), sautéed chicken steak with persiallade, a classic Chateaubriand (for two, or more), les piéces de resistance: two grand All-American Hamburgers, each stacked high with Julia and Jacquess' respective favorite garnishes and condiments.
AFTER—Edited version
Title: Julia & Jacques Cooking at Home: Beef
Description: “There's nothing as good as a good piece of meat,” and as Julia Child is quick to point out in this video, there is less and less really good (well-marbled and aged) beef to be found. Jacques Pépin joins Julia in her kitchen to prepare hangar steak, skirt strip, flank and ribeye: sautéed ribeye steak for Steak Diane, New York strip steak with crushed pepper (Steak au Poivre), sautéed chicken steak with persiallade, a classic Chateaubriand (for two or more), and les piéces de resistance: two grand all-American hamburgers, each stacked high with Julia’s and Jacques’ favorite garnishes and condiments.