Lead

Definition

In feature writing, a lead is the opening sentence or paragraph that hooks the reader's attention and sets the tone for the story. A strong lead is crucial because it gives readers a reason to continue reading and often conveys the main idea or angle of the piece, making it integral to various aspects of writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Leads can take various forms, including anecdotal, descriptive, or even a quote, depending on the story’s style and purpose.
2. Effective leads often evoke emotion or curiosity, creating an immediate connection with the reader.
3. In feature writing, leads are generally longer and more narrative-driven compared to news writing, where they tend to be concise.
4. Crafting a strong lead may require multiple drafts as it sets the stage for the entire piece, influencing how the story unfolds.
5. The choice of lead can shape how a story is perceived; a compelling lead can establish tone and direction, guiding the reader's experience.

Review Questions

• How does a well-crafted lead enhance the overall effectiveness of a feature story?
  • A well-crafted lead enhances a feature story by capturing the reader's attention immediately and setting an engaging tone. It establishes the narrative's angle while evoking emotion or curiosity, which encourages readers to continue. The lead acts as a gateway into the story, framing how subsequent information is perceived and understood.
• Discuss how different types of leads can impact reader engagement in feature writing.
  • Different types of leads can significantly impact reader engagement by varying in style and emotional appeal. For instance, an anecdotal lead may draw readers in with a personal story that creates empathy, while a descriptive lead might immerse them in vivid imagery. By understanding how these variations affect engagement, writers can choose leads that best fit their narrative and audience.
• Evaluate the importance of revising leads in feature writing and its implications for storytelling.
  • Revising leads in feature writing is essential because it directly influences how effectively a story captivates its audience. A polished lead reflects clarity and purpose, ensuring that it aligns with the overall narrative direction. The revision process allows writers to refine their message and emotional tone, ultimately enhancing storytelling by ensuring that every element resonates with readers from the outset.

Related terms

Nut Graf: A paragraph that explains the essence of the story, providing context and significance after the lead.

Inverted Pyramid: A style of writing where the most important information appears at the beginning, followed by supporting details, often used in news writing but can influence feature writing.

Hook: A compelling opening phrase or sentence that captures the reader's interest, similar to a lead but can refer more broadly to any engaging entry point in writing.