An acceptable format, but is a very, very weak choice. The purpose of writing is to answer the readers’ questions, not ask them.

Clarifies the writer’s opinion on a controversial point. This is better for Opinion/Editorial pieces.

The purpose is to shock the readers.

Compares polar opposites: huge/tiny, or explosive/placid

This could be a citation from an important person mentioned in the body of the article or said by an important person, but relates to the story’s purpose.

A reference to a person, place, thing, or idea in literature or history that is commonly known to the paper’s readers.

Ignites interest by starting at the beginning of an incident/situation and then following a chronological order. Readers will only find out the resolution by reading the whole piece.

A Lead should NOT be more than words, so make every word count

A NEWS and Sports News Lead should be a Hard Summary Lead. This means it is factual. Save opinions and obvious slant for Features, Sports Features, Opinions/Editorials, and Reviews.

A lead is the paragraph in the news piece. It’s sole purpose is to HOOK the reader to read the complete article. To do this the reporter chooses the most important points from: WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHY or HOW.

Relates an emotional or exciting part of a situation