Above the Fold

Definition

Above the fold refers to the upper half of a newspaper or webpage that is visible without scrolling. This area is crucial because it captures the reader's attention immediately, often influencing their decision to read further. In sports journalism, headlines and compelling leads placed above the fold are designed to engage readers right away, driving interest in the story and improving overall readership.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Content placed above the fold is more likely to be seen by readers, making it essential for high-impact stories in sports journalism.
2. In digital formats, 'above the fold' may vary depending on the device being used, as screen sizes differ between smartphones, tablets, and desktops.
3. Using engaging visuals and strong leads above the fold can significantly increase click-through rates on digital articles.
4. The concept of above the fold originated with print newspapers but has evolved with online media as scrolling has become a common user behavior.
5. Effective use of above the fold content can lead to higher reader retention and longer time spent on a page, which is crucial for ad revenue and overall site performance.

Review Questions

• How does placing content above the fold influence reader engagement in sports journalism?
  • Placing content above the fold significantly enhances reader engagement by capturing attention immediately. When compelling headlines and leads are positioned in this prime space, they draw readers in and encourage them to explore further. In sports journalism, where timely and exciting information is critical, this strategy is essential for driving interest and readership.
• What techniques can journalists use to maximize impact for content placed above the fold?
  • To maximize impact for content above the fold, journalists can utilize eye-catching headlines, strong visuals, and concise leads that encapsulate the essence of the story. Additionally, using action verbs and evoking emotions can create urgency and intrigue. The goal is to provide enough information to entice readers while leaving them wanting more, prompting them to scroll down or click on the article.
• Evaluate how the digital transformation has changed the significance of 'above the fold' compared to traditional print media.
  • The digital transformation has fundamentally altered the significance of 'above the fold' by shifting its meaning from a fixed physical space to a dynamic and variable screen area. While traditional print media had a definitive layout where important information was always located at the top of the page, online platforms require journalists to adapt as users scroll at different depths based on their device. This means that engaging content must not only be compelling at first glance but also throughout the entire article to maintain reader interest in a more fluid digital environment.

Related terms

Lead: The opening sentence or paragraph of an article that summarizes the main point and grabs the reader's attention.

Headline: A brief, attention-grabbing title that summarizes the content of an article, often crafted to entice readers into clicking or reading more.

Scroll Depth: A metric that measures how far down a page users scroll, indicating their level of engagement with the content.