To start a news article lead, you must immediately grab the reader's attention and pique their curiosity within the first few sentences, compelling them to read further. This is achieved by employing powerful words, intriguing facts, or thought-provoking questions to craft a compelling hook.
The Essence of a News Lead
The lead (or lede) is the crucial opening paragraph of a news article. Its primary purpose is to summarize the most important information while simultaneously enticing the reader. A well-written lead acts as a gateway, determining whether a reader continues or moves on. It should be concise, informative, and engaging, typically answering the "5 W's and 1 H" (Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How) in its most basic form, but always with an eye toward creating that initial spark.
Crafting an Irresistible Hook
As highlighted, the first few sentences are paramount for engaging the reader. The key is to create a "strong hook that entices readers to continue reading" by leveraging specific techniques:
Powerful Words
Using evocative and impactful vocabulary can instantly draw a reader in. These words create a vivid image or convey urgency and significance.
- Example: "Devastating floods have swept through the region, displacing thousands and causing unprecedented damage." (Instead of "Floods happened and people moved.")
Intriguing Facts
Starting with a startling or little-known fact directly related to your story can immediately capture attention and make the reader eager to understand the context.
- Example: "Every 30 seconds, a child under five dies from a preventable disease in this country, a stark reality local health officials are desperate to change."
Thought-Provoking Questions
Posing a direct question to the reader can create an immediate sense of connection and prompt them to seek the answer within your article.
- Example: "What if the solution to our energy crisis lay buried beneath our very feet, untapped and revolutionary? A recent discovery suggests it might."
Common Lead Types
While the hook is about how you grab attention, the lead type determines the structure of the initial information presented.
- Summary Lead (or Direct Lead): This is the most common type for breaking news. It quickly summarizes the core of the story (the 5 W's and 1 H) in one or two sentences.
- Example: "A massive earthquake measuring 7.5 magnitude struck the capital city early this morning, causing widespread devastation and an unknown number of casualties, authorities confirmed."
- Anecdotal Lead: This starts with a short, compelling story or anecdote that illustrates a larger theme of the article. It pulls the reader in emotionally before delivering the main facts.
- Example: "For years, Sarah clung to a faded photograph of her lost dog, a symbol of the thousands of pets separated from their families during last year's wildfires. Now, a groundbreaking DNA project offers a glimmer of hope for reunification."
- Quote Lead: While less common for hard news due to potential for misinterpretation or lack of immediate context, a powerful, concise quote can serve as an effective lead for features or opinion pieces.
- Caution: Ensure the quote is impactful, easily understandable, and directly relevant. It should not require extensive pre-explanation.
- Example: "'This is a game-changer for our economy,' declared Mayor Thompson, referring to the new tech hub poised to bring thousands of jobs to the region."
Best Practices for Writing Effective Leads
To ensure your lead is both captivating and informative, consider these guidelines:
- Be Concise: News leads are typically short—one to three sentences at most. Get to the point quickly.
- Accuracy is Paramount: Every fact, name, and detail in your lead must be absolutely correct.
- Use Active Voice: Active voice makes your sentences more direct, clear, and engaging.
- Avoid Jargon: Write for a general audience. Simplify complex terms.
- Focus on the Newest/Most Important Angle: What is the most significant or fresh aspect of the story?
- Review and Refine: Always read your lead aloud to check for flow and impact.
Lead Writing: Do's and Don'ts
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Grab Attention: Use powerful words, intriguing facts, or thought-provoking questions. | Don't Bury the Lead: Avoid starting with minor details. |
| Be Clear & Concise: Get to the point quickly. | Don't Use Jargon or Slang: Keep language accessible. |
| Use Active Voice: Enhance readability and impact. | Don't Be Ambiguous: Ensure clarity from the start. |
| Answer Key Questions (5 W's & 1 H): Summarize the core info. | Don't Start with a Weak or Irrelevant Quote: Unless it's truly compelling. |
| Proofread Thoroughly: Ensure accuracy and no grammatical errors. | Don't Use Passive Voice Excessively: It weakens the lead. |
By focusing on a strong hook and delivering essential information clearly, your news article lead will effectively draw readers into your story.
