Question Lead

Definition

A question lead is a type of lead in journalism that poses a question to the reader, enticing them to read further for answers. This technique captures attention by prompting curiosity, making readers eager to discover the resolution or insight that follows, which is particularly effective in engaging audiences at the start of a piece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Question leads are often used in feature writing to create intrigue and encourage readers to continue reading.
2. They work well in storytelling as they create a direct connection between the reader's curiosity and the narrative.
3. Effective question leads should be open-ended rather than rhetorical to genuinely engage the reader's thoughts.
4. While they can be powerful, overusing question leads can diminish their impact; balance is key.
5. A well-crafted question lead sets the tone for the piece and can frame how the reader interprets the information that follows.

Review Questions

• How does a question lead enhance reader engagement in feature writing?
  • A question lead enhances reader engagement by directly appealing to their curiosity. By posing a question, it invites readers to think about their own answers and creates a desire to find out how the article will address it. This technique sets an interactive tone that can make readers feel more connected to the content, motivating them to continue reading to see if their expectations are met.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of using a question lead compared to other types of leads in journalism.
  • Using a question lead can be more effective than other types of leads when aiming for an emotional or intellectual connection with readers. Unlike straight news leads that deliver facts upfront, question leads encourage readers to ponder and engage with the topic on a deeper level. However, they may not always be appropriate for hard news stories where clarity and immediacy are crucial, suggesting that their effectiveness varies based on the story's intent and audience.
• Create an example of a compelling question lead for a feature story on climate change and analyze its potential impact.
  • An example of a compelling question lead could be, 'What would your life look like if your hometown was underwater?' This question immediately personalizes the issue of climate change, prompting readers to visualize the consequences it could have on their lives and communities. By evoking emotional responses and provoking thought, this lead could significantly increase reader engagement and urgency regarding climate change discussions, motivating them to explore solutions presented in the story.

Related terms

Lead: The opening sentence or paragraph of a news article that summarizes the most important aspects of the story.

Nut Graf: A paragraph that explains the significance of the story, usually following the lead, providing context and direction for the reader.

Hook:

A compelling statement or question designed to grab the reader's attention and draw them into the story.