Types of Briefs
You do not have to be super creative to write a brief, especially because there are so many ways to do so:
Round-up articles. Call six or seven experts in a particular industry and ask them all the same question. Then provide their answers in a brief. If I were writing a round-up brief, for example, I might call several publicity experts and ask this question: "What's the best piece of advice you can offer Publicity Hounds who want to develop and maintain strong relationships with the media?" Most people will be happy to participate because this is extra publicity for them, too.
Definitions. Explain the meaning of words within a certain industry, particularly new words and phrases.
New Products. Many magazines have new product sections. Explain how your product can help readers. Provide free tips.
Q&A. Some publications print mini bios of people in Q&A format. If you have a new CEO, for example, you can feature him or her answering a series of short questions. Provide a photo.
For more examples of what you can use for briefs, and how to best write them see Special Report 30 "Briefs, Fillers & Quizzes: The Shortest, Easiest Articles You'll Ever Write"

