Delayed lead

Definition

A delayed lead is a storytelling technique used in journalism where the most critical information is not presented at the beginning of the piece. Instead, the lead captures the reader's interest with a hook or engaging detail before revealing the main facts. This method is commonly employed in soft news and feature writing to create a more immersive reading experience, allowing writers to build a narrative that unfolds over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The delayed lead is particularly effective in feature stories because it allows for a narrative arc, making the reading experience more engaging.
2. Writers can use vivid imagery or anecdotes in the delayed lead to draw readers in before transitioning to the main points of the story.
3. This technique contrasts with hard news writing, where the focus is on delivering essential information quickly and efficiently.
4. Incorporating a delayed lead can enhance emotional connections with readers by setting up scenes or characters before delivering factual content.
5. Delayed leads often require careful crafting to maintain clarity while also keeping the reader intrigued throughout the piece.

Review Questions

• How does a delayed lead differ from a traditional news lead in terms of structure and reader engagement?
  • A delayed lead differs from a traditional news lead primarily in its structure and approach to reader engagement. While traditional leads present the most critical information upfront for quick comprehension, delayed leads take a more narrative-driven approach. They engage readers by starting with an intriguing detail or story element before gradually revealing the main points, which encourages deeper emotional involvement and curiosity about the unfolding narrative.
• Discuss how a delayed lead can impact the overall effectiveness of a feature story.
  • A delayed lead can significantly enhance the effectiveness of a feature story by creating suspense and drawing readers into the narrative. By using engaging hooks or vivid descriptions at the start, writers can capture attention immediately, setting up an emotional connection. This strategy allows for a gradual reveal of key information, making readers more invested in the story's progression and outcome. The result is often a more compelling and memorable reading experience.
• Evaluate the potential drawbacks of using a delayed lead in soft news writing and its implications for reader retention.
  • While a delayed lead can enrich storytelling in soft news writing, it may also pose challenges regarding reader retention. If readers do not find the initial hook compelling enough, they may lose interest before reaching critical information. Additionally, this technique requires careful balance; too much delay could confuse or frustrate readers who prefer straightforward news delivery. Therefore, writers must gauge their audience's preferences to effectively use this technique while ensuring key messages are conveyed without losing engagement.

Related terms

Nut Graf: A paragraph that explains the significance of the story and provides context, typically found after the lead in feature writing.

Inverted Pyramid: A journalistic structure where the most important information comes first, followed by supporting details, which contrasts with the delayed lead approach.

Soft News: News that is more about human interest and less about hard facts, often focusing on lifestyle, entertainment, and features rather than breaking news.