Different types of lead in news writing

In news writing, a "lead" refers to the opening paragraph or section of a news article that grabs the reader's attention and sets the tone for the rest of the story. There are several types of leads, each with its own purpose and style. Here are some common types of leads:

  1. Inverted Pyramid Lead: This is the most common type of lead. It starts with the most important information, usually the who, what, where, when, and why of the story, and then provides more details in subsequent paragraphs.
  2. Narrative Lead: This type of lead tells a story, often using descriptive language and vivid details to draw the reader in. It may not provide all the facts of the story, but instead, sets the scene and establishes the tone.
  3. Question Lead: This type of lead asks a question that is answered in the rest of the article. It's a great way to engage the reader and encourage them to keep reading.
  4. Statistical Lead: This type of lead uses statistics or numbers to grab the reader's attention. It's often used for stories about trends, research, or data-driven topics.
  5. Anecdotal Lead: This type of lead uses a personal story or anecdote to illustrate the point of the article. It's often used to make the story more relatable and human.
  6. Quotation Lead: This type of lead uses a quote from a key person or expert to set the tone and provide context for the story.
  7. Summary Lead: This type of lead provides a brief summary of the story, often including the main points and key facts.
  8. Action Lead: This type of lead describes an action or event that is happening, often in real-time. It's often used for breaking news or live coverage.
  9. Descriptive Lead: This type of lead uses vivid and descriptive language to paint a picture of the story. It's often used for feature stories or human-interest pieces.
  10. Humorous Lead: This type of lead uses humor to grab the reader's attention and set the tone for the rest of the story.
  11. Surprising Lead: This type of lead uses a surprising fact or statistic to grab the reader's attention and encourage them to keep reading.
  12. Intrigue Lead: This type of lead creates a sense of intrigue or mystery, often by asking a question or hinting at a larger story.

Remember, the goal of a lead is to engage the reader and draw them into the story. The type of lead you choose will depend on the tone and style of your article, as well as the audience you're writing for.