Lead

Definition

In news production, a lead refers to the opening sentence or paragraph of a news story that captures the essence of the report and draws the reader in. It typically includes the most important information and answers key questions like who, what, when, where, and why, setting the stage for the details that follow.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A strong lead is crucial as it determines whether readers will continue reading the story; it should be clear and concise.
2. Leads can vary in style; some may be straightforward while others are more creative, depending on the type of news and target audience.
3. The traditional '5 Ws' (who, what, when, where, why) framework is often employed to ensure all essential elements are included in the lead.
4. In breaking news situations, leads may change as new information comes in; thus, flexibility in writing is important.
5. Different types of stories, such as feature pieces or investigative reports, may require different approaches to crafting a lead.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of a lead contribute to effective news reporting?
  • The structure of a lead is essential for effective news reporting because it provides a snapshot of the most important aspects of a story right at the beginning. By answering key questions like who, what, when, where, and why, a well-crafted lead can engage readers and encourage them to continue reading. Additionally, it sets the tone for the rest of the article and helps establish clarity and focus from the outset.
• In what ways can the style of a lead impact reader engagement and understanding?
  • The style of a lead can significantly impact reader engagement and understanding by influencing how easily the audience connects with the story. A straightforward lead might appeal to readers looking for clear information quickly, while a more creative or anecdotal lead could draw in those seeking an emotional connection. The choice between these styles often depends on the nature of the story and the target audience's preferences, ultimately affecting how effectively information is communicated.
• Evaluate how different types of leads can be utilized for various news genres, and discuss their effectiveness in conveying information.
  • Different types of leads are tailored to suit various news genres and enhance effectiveness in conveying information. For instance, hard news leads typically prioritize immediate facts to inform readers quickly about urgent events. In contrast, soft news leads might employ storytelling techniques or personal anecdotes to evoke emotional responses from readers. Evaluating these approaches shows how well-crafted leads can guide audience expectations and improve comprehension based on the intended message of each story.

Related terms

Inverted Pyramid: A writing style often used in journalism where the most critical information is presented at the beginning of the story, followed by supporting details in order of decreasing importance.

Nut Graph: A paragraph that explains the significance of the story and provides context, often following the lead to give readers a clearer understanding of its importance.

Angle: The specific focus or perspective from which a news story is approached, influencing how the lead is crafted to reflect that perspective.