Nut graph

Definition

A nut graph is a critical component of a feature story that succinctly summarizes the main point or theme of the article. It provides the reader with a clear understanding of why the story matters, often answering the 'so what?' question and setting the tone for the rest of the piece. This section typically follows the lead and serves as a bridge between the attention-grabbing introduction and the detailed narrative that follows.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nut graphs help clarify complex topics by boiling them down into essential points, making them easier for readers to grasp.
2. The nut graph often contains key statistics or quotes that reinforce the main idea, giving it credibility and weight.
3. In feature writing, the nut graph is especially important because it helps to keep readers engaged by explaining why they should care about the story.
4. While typically placed after the lead, some writers may experiment with its placement to maintain flow and reader interest.
5. Effective nut graphs are concise, usually just a few sentences long, yet powerful enough to encapsulate the essence of the story.

Review Questions

• How does a nut graph enhance the understanding of a feature story for readers?
  • A nut graph enhances understanding by summarizing the main point or theme of a feature story in a clear and concise manner. It addresses the 'so what?' aspect, helping readers to quickly grasp why the story is relevant. By providing context right after an engaging lead, it maintains reader interest and prepares them for more detailed information that follows.
• Discuss the relationship between a nut graph and other elements of feature writing, such as the lead and body paragraphs.
  • The nut graph acts as a crucial link between the lead and body paragraphs in feature writing. While the lead draws readers in with an intriguing hook or anecdote, the nut graph clarifies the main theme or message. Following this, body paragraphs expand on details and stories that support and enrich the concept presented in the nut graph, creating a cohesive narrative throughout.
• Evaluate how effectively incorporating a strong nut graph can impact the overall quality and reception of a feature story.
  • Incorporating a strong nut graph can significantly enhance both the quality and reception of a feature story by providing clarity and focus. A well-crafted nut graph captures readers' attention by succinctly stating why the story matters, thereby encouraging them to continue reading. Furthermore, it sets expectations for what is to come, ensuring that all subsequent information aligns with and supports this central message, which ultimately leads to greater reader engagement and satisfaction.

Related terms

Lead: The opening sentence or paragraph of a story that grabs attention and sets up the main focus.

Feature Story: A longer, more in-depth article that goes beyond hard news to explore a topic or human interest story in detail.

Graph: In journalism, a graph is often used to describe a paragraph; however, it can also refer to visual data representation in stories.