Subhead

Definition

A subhead is a secondary heading that appears below the main headline in a news article, often used to break up text and provide additional information or context. Subheads enhance readability and help guide the reader through the article by highlighting important points or sections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subheads can help break up large blocks of text, making articles easier to skim and digest for readers.
2. They often include key phrases that summarize or highlight important details related to the content that follows.
3. Using subheads effectively can improve engagement, as they create visual interest and aid in navigation through the article.
4. Subheads are particularly useful in longer articles, where they can indicate shifts in topic or focus within the content.
5. In online journalism, subheads are crucial for SEO (Search Engine Optimization), helping articles rank higher in search results.

Review Questions

• How do subheads contribute to the overall structure and readability of a news article?
  • Subheads play an essential role in structuring a news article by breaking up the text into manageable sections. This helps improve readability as it allows readers to quickly locate information and navigate through different parts of the article. By summarizing key points and indicating shifts in topic, subheads enhance the flow of information and keep readers engaged.
• In what ways can effective use of subheads impact reader engagement and comprehension in news writing?
  • Effective use of subheads can significantly boost reader engagement and comprehension by providing visual cues that guide readers through the content. Subheads highlight essential information and key topics, making it easier for readers to skim articles while still grasping the main ideas. This structured approach not only maintains interest but also ensures that readers can quickly find relevant sections without getting lost in dense text.
• Evaluate the importance of subheads in both print and digital news articles, considering their roles in formatting, SEO, and user experience.
  • Subheads are critical in both print and digital news articles as they enhance formatting and user experience. In print, they break up text for better readability. In digital formats, they serve not only to improve user navigation but also play a vital role in SEO. Well-crafted subheads containing relevant keywords can boost an article's visibility online, driving more traffic to it while also ensuring that users find important information quickly. This combination of benefits illustrates their significance across various platforms.

Related terms

headline: The main title of a news article that captures the essence of the story and draws readers in.

lede: The introductory section of a news article that summarizes the most important aspects of the story, typically addressing the who, what, when, where, why, and how.

body: The main part of a news article that provides detailed information, facts, and quotes, expanding on the points mentioned in the headline and lede.