Delayed lead

Definition

A delayed lead is a storytelling technique used in journalism where the most critical information or the main point of the story is not revealed immediately, but rather after some background or context has been provided. This approach can create suspense and engage readers by prompting them to continue reading to discover the main point of the piece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Delayed leads are particularly effective in feature stories, where capturing emotional engagement is crucial.
2. This technique allows journalists to set the scene or provide context, which can enhance reader understanding and interest.
3. While delayed leads can be engaging, they require careful crafting to ensure that readers do not lose interest before reaching the main point.
4. In sports journalism, a delayed lead can be used to build anticipation around a significant play or moment during a game.
5. Journalists must balance creativity with clarity when using delayed leads, ensuring that the eventual reveal remains impactful and relevant.

Review Questions

• How does a delayed lead differ from a traditional news lead in sports journalism?
  • A delayed lead differs from a traditional news lead by not presenting the most critical information right away. Instead, it sets up a narrative or context that draws readers in before revealing key details. In sports journalism, this technique can build suspense around crucial moments in games, enhancing reader engagement compared to simply stating the score or outcome at the beginning.
• Discuss how using a delayed lead can affect the overall flow and engagement of a sports story.
  • Using a delayed lead can significantly enhance the flow and engagement of a sports story by creating an element of suspense. By providing background details or anecdotes first, journalists allow readers to become invested in the narrative before revealing the climactic moment. This approach encourages readers to stay engaged as they anticipate how the story will unfold and what key information will ultimately be revealed.
• Evaluate the impact of employing a delayed lead on reader retention and comprehension in sports articles.
  • Employing a delayed lead can have both positive and negative impacts on reader retention and comprehension in sports articles. On one hand, it captures attention and keeps readers interested by building anticipation. On the other hand, if not executed well, it may confuse readers or cause them to lose interest before reaching the main point. Ultimately, effective use of this technique requires a balance between suspense and clarity to ensure that readers remain engaged while still understanding the core message of the article.

Related terms

inverted pyramid: A writing style where the most important information comes first, followed by supporting details, which contrasts with the delayed lead approach.

nut graf:

A paragraph that summarizes the essence of the story, often placed after the lead to clarify the main points and relevance.

anecdotal lead: A lead that starts with a brief story or anecdote related to the main topic, often used to draw in readers before transitioning to the main story.