Lead

Definition

In sports writing, the lead is the opening sentence or paragraph of a story that captures the essence of the news and grabs the reader's attention. A strong lead sets the tone for the entire piece, providing essential information about the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the event being covered. It plays a crucial role in post-interview processing, structuring narratives effectively, and developing a distinct writing voice.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A lead should be concise and compelling, ideally containing no more than 25-30 words to maintain reader interest.
2. The type of lead can vary depending on the story; for instance, a summary lead quickly summarizes key details, while an anecdotal lead draws readers in with a narrative element.
3. Strong leads often utilize vivid language or strong action verbs to create a sense of urgency or excitement.
4. Leads can be revised multiple times during post-interview processing as new insights and angles are discovered during story development.
5. An effective lead not only informs but also entices readers to continue reading by creating curiosity about what comes next.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of a lead influence the overall effectiveness of a sports story?
  • The structure of a lead significantly influences a sports story's effectiveness by determining how well it captures readers' attention right from the start. A well-crafted lead highlights the most important aspects of the story while engaging the audience with intriguing language or action. This initial engagement encourages readers to dive deeper into the narrative and fully understand the event being covered.
• In what ways can different types of leads be utilized to cater to various sports stories?
  • Different types of leads can be used strategically based on the nature of the sports story being told. For straightforward reports, a summary lead quickly provides essential information, while an anecdotal lead might work better for human-interest stories, connecting readers emotionally to athletes or events. By choosing an appropriate type of lead, writers can tailor their approach to suit specific narratives, enhancing reader engagement and understanding.
• Evaluate how your writing voice can be reflected in your leads and its impact on audience connection.
  • Your writing voice can shine through your leads by incorporating unique phrases, stylistic choices, and personal perspectives that resonate with your audience. When leads reflect an authentic voice, they create a stronger emotional connection with readers, making them feel more invested in the story. This distinctive approach not only captures attention but also builds trust and loyalty among your audience, as they begin to recognize and appreciate your individual storytelling style.

Related terms

Nut Graph: A paragraph that explains the main point of a story, often following the lead, providing context and background information.

Inverted Pyramid: A writing style where the most important information is presented at the beginning, followed by supporting details in order of decreasing importance.

Quote: A verbatim statement from a source, often used to enhance storytelling and provide authenticity to the narrative.