Deck

Definition

In journalism, a deck refers to the secondary headline or subheadline that provides additional information about the article's main topic, often summarizing key points. It acts as a bridge between the headline and the body of the text, drawing readers in by highlighting essential aspects of the story, thus enhancing the reader's understanding and interest.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A deck typically appears directly below the main headline and serves to further entice readers by offering a snapshot of what to expect in the article.
2. The length of a deck can vary but is generally kept concise, usually one or two sentences, ensuring it complements the main headline effectively.
3. Using active voice and strong verbs in a deck can significantly enhance reader engagement and interest.
4. Decks are particularly useful in online journalism, where they can be optimized with keywords for search engine visibility.
5. A well-crafted deck can improve comprehension and retention by providing context that may not be immediately clear from the headline alone.

Review Questions

• How does a deck enhance the effectiveness of an article's headline?
  • A deck enhances an article's headline by providing additional context that helps clarify the main topic. While the headline grabs attention, the deck gives readers insight into what specific aspects of the story will be discussed. This added layer of information can influence whether readers decide to engage further with the content, making both elements work together to draw in and inform the audience.
• What role does a deck play in attracting online readers compared to traditional print media?
  • In online journalism, a deck plays a crucial role in attracting readers because it can be optimized for search engines with relevant keywords. Unlike traditional print media, where space is limited and attention spans are shorter, decks online can provide a succinct summary that piques curiosity and encourages clicks. This adaptability is vital in capturing audience interest amid a sea of information available on digital platforms.
• Evaluate how the use of strong verbs in decks affects reader engagement and comprehension.
  • Using strong verbs in decks significantly boosts reader engagement by making the content more dynamic and compelling. When verbs convey action or emotion effectively, they can create a sense of urgency or interest that draws readers in. This technique not only captures attention but also aids comprehension by clearly indicating what the article will cover, enabling readers to quickly grasp the essence of the story before diving into the full text.

Related terms

headline:

The main title of an article, designed to grab attention and convey the essence of the story in a concise manner.

lead:

The opening sentence or paragraph of an article that summarizes the most important aspects of the news story, often answering who, what, when, where, why, and how.

subhead: A smaller heading within the text of an article that organizes content into sections and provides clarity on the information presented.