Understanding different types of news leads is crucial for effective writing. Each lead serves a unique purpose, helping to engage readers and convey essential information. From summary to shock leads, mastering these techniques enhances storytelling in journalism.
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Summary Lead
- Provides the essential information of the story in a concise manner.
- Answers the who, what, when, where, why, and how in the first sentence.
- Sets the tone for the rest of the article, allowing readers to quickly grasp the main point.
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Anecdotal Lead
- Begins with a brief story or personal experience related to the main topic.
- Engages readers emotionally and draws them into the narrative.
- Often used to humanize a larger issue or topic, making it relatable.
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Question Lead
- Starts with a provocative question to pique the reader's interest.
- Encourages readers to think critically about the topic before providing answers.
- Can be effective in drawing attention but should be used sparingly to avoid sounding gimmicky.
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Quote Lead
- Opens with a compelling quote from a key figure or expert related to the story.
- Adds credibility and can provide insight or a unique perspective on the topic.
- Should be relevant and impactful to set the stage for the article.
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Descriptive Lead
- Paints a vivid picture of a scene or event to immerse the reader in the story.
- Uses sensory details to create a strong visual or emotional impact.
- Effective for setting the mood and context before delving into the main points.
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Contrast Lead
- Highlights a stark difference between two ideas, events, or situations.
- Engages readers by presenting conflicting perspectives or outcomes.
- Useful for emphasizing change or the significance of a particular issue.
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Delayed Lead
- Withholds the main point or key information until later in the article.
- Builds suspense and encourages readers to continue reading for the resolution.
- Often used in feature stories or complex narratives to create intrigue.
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Narrative Lead
- Tells a story in a chronological manner, drawing readers into the unfolding events.
- Focuses on characters and their experiences, making the story more engaging.
- Allows for a deeper exploration of the topic through storytelling techniques.
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Shock Lead
- Opens with an unexpected or startling fact or statement to grab attention.
- Aims to provoke a strong emotional reaction from the reader.
- Should be used judiciously to avoid sensationalism and maintain journalistic integrity.
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Statistical Lead
- Begins with a striking statistic or data point relevant to the story.
- Provides a factual basis that can lend authority to the article.
- Effective for highlighting trends or significant issues backed by research.