Lede

Definition

A lede is the opening sentence or paragraph of a news article that summarizes the most important aspects of the story, capturing the reader's attention and providing essential information. It sets the tone and direction for the entire piece, often answering key questions like who, what, where, when, and why, in a concise manner to engage readers from the very beginning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The lede is crucial for drawing in readers and establishing interest, as many may only read the headline and the first few lines before deciding to continue.
2. There are different types of ledes, such as summary ledes that present a straightforward overview, and anecdotal ledes that use a narrative or personal story to hook readers.
3. A strong lede typically incorporates key elements like the main facts of the story while maintaining a clear and engaging style.
4. Journalists often revise ledes multiple times to ensure clarity and impact, reflecting the evolving nature of storytelling as they gather more information.
5. Effective ledes can significantly influence how a story is perceived and understood by readers, making them an essential skill for any writer in journalism.

Review Questions

• How does a well-crafted lede impact reader engagement in journalism?
  • A well-crafted lede impacts reader engagement by providing a concise summary of the key points in a way that captures attention and entices further reading. It answers crucial questions early on, allowing readers to quickly grasp the essence of the story. This initial hook is vital because it determines whether readers will continue to engage with the article or move on to something else.
• Compare and contrast different types of ledes and their effectiveness in news writing.
  • Different types of ledes serve distinct purposes in news writing. Summary ledes provide a straightforward overview of the main facts, making them effective for delivering information quickly. In contrast, anecdotal ledes tell a compelling story or personal experience to draw readers in emotionally. While summary ledes are often more suitable for hard news articles, anecdotal ledes can be more effective in feature stories where creating an emotional connection is essential.
• Evaluate how the structure of a lede influences overall storytelling in journalism.
  • The structure of a lede plays a pivotal role in influencing overall storytelling by setting the tone and direction for the entire article. A clear and impactful lede not only summarizes key information but also establishes the narrative style, whether it be straightforward or more narrative-driven. This foundational element guides how readers perceive and interpret the information that follows, making it an essential tool for journalists to effectively communicate their message and engage their audience.

Related terms

Nut Graf: A paragraph that explains the significance of the story, often following the lede, and providing context or background information.

Inverted Pyramid: A style of news writing where the most important information is presented first, followed by details in decreasing order of significance.

Headline: A brief title or summary of a news article that aims to grab attention and entice readers to read more.