A question lead is an opening sentence or paragraph that begins a story by asking a question. This technique aims to capture the reader's attention immediately by posing a direct query related to the story's topic.
Understanding the Concept
In the realm of writing, particularly in journalism, the lead (or lede) is crucial as it's the first element that engages the reader. A question lead serves as a direct invitation for the reader to ponder the topic before delving into the details. For example, a story about climate change might begin with, "Are we doing enough to save our planet?"
While this approach can initially seem like an effective way to spark interest, its use is often debated among writing professionals and educators.
Why Question Leads Are Problematic
Despite being endorsed by some journalism classes and textbooks, question leads are generally considered problematic, especially for new writers. They come with several significant drawbacks that can hinder a story's effectiveness and reader engagement.
Here are the primary reasons why question leads are often advised against:
- Reader's Purpose: A fundamental aspect of reading is to learn something new or to be informed about a topic. Readers typically seek answers and insights, not to be quizzed on the subject. When a story starts with a question, it shifts the reader's role from receiving information to being tested, which can be an unexpected and unwelcome experience.
- Laziness in Craft: Many critics view the question lead as a lazy way to introduce a story. Crafting an effective lead requires skill, creativity, and a deep understanding of the story's essence. It demands the writer to synthesize key information into a compelling, direct opening. Relying on a question can often indicate a writer's struggle to find a more direct and impactful entry point into their narrative. A strong lead should ideally provide immediate value, context, or a captivating fact, drawing the reader in without needing to pose a rhetorical query.
In essence, while a question lead might seem like an easy way to start, it often fails to deliver the direct information and engaging narrative that readers expect, potentially leading to disinterest rather than deeper engagement.
