Lead-in

Definition

A lead-in is a crucial introductory statement or phrase in a news story that captures the audience's attention and summarizes the main point of the report. It sets the tone for the piece, drawing viewers or readers in while providing essential context about what to expect in the story that follows.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The lead-in should be concise and compelling, often limited to one or two sentences to maintain viewer interest.
2. Effective lead-ins often answer key questions such as who, what, when, where, why, and how, giving the audience a quick overview.
3. In broadcast journalism, lead-ins can also include visual elements and sound bites that enhance the storytelling experience.
4. A well-crafted lead-in can significantly influence how an audience perceives the entire news story and can encourage them to stay tuned for more.
5. Different styles of lead-ins may be used depending on the nature of the story, such as hard news, features, or human interest pieces.

Review Questions

• What are some key elements that make a lead-in effective in capturing audience attention?
  • An effective lead-in must be concise, compelling, and informative. It should quickly summarize the main point of the story while answering essential questions such as who, what, when, where, why, and how. Additionally, using engaging language and a strong hook can draw in viewers or readers, making them more likely to continue with the story.
• How does a lead-in differ when used in hard news compared to feature stories?
  • In hard news, a lead-in typically focuses on delivering key facts quickly and directly to convey urgency and importance. It often emphasizes critical elements like timing and location. In contrast, feature stories may use more descriptive language and storytelling techniques in their lead-ins to evoke emotions and create a connection with the audience. This difference reflects the varying objectives of hard news versus feature reporting.
• Evaluate the impact of a strong lead-in on audience retention during a news broadcast.
  • A strong lead-in plays a vital role in audience retention during a news broadcast by establishing an immediate connection with viewers. When a lead-in is crafted effectively, it can spark curiosity and encourage viewers to stay engaged throughout the report. Conversely, a weak or uninteresting lead-in may cause viewers to lose interest quickly and switch channels. Therefore, mastering the art of writing impactful lead-ins is essential for journalists aiming to capture and maintain their audience's attention.

Related terms

Hook: An engaging opening sentence or element designed to grab the audience's attention and pique their interest in the story.

Nut Graf: A paragraph that explains the significance of the story and provides necessary background information to help the audience understand its importance.

Transition: A phrase or sentence that smoothly connects different parts of a news story, guiding the audience through the narrative flow.