Exploring the Meaning Behind the Term ‘Burying the Lead’
Have you ever encountered a news story or article that starts with a lot of background information before finally getting to the point? If so, then you have likely come across a buried lead. But what does it mean to bury the lead?
In journalism, a lead (also known as a lede) is the first sentence of a news story or article. It is meant to give readers an idea of what the story is about and why they should keep reading. Burying the lead occurs when the most important information is placed further down in the story, instead of at the beginning.
Definition of the Phrase
The phrase “bury the lead” has been used since the mid-1800s. It comes from the newspaper business, where writers would often bury the most important details of a story deep within the text. This could be done for various reasons, such as to add suspense or to make the story more interesting.
Nowadays, the phrase is used to describe any situation where the most important information is not given upfront. This can happen in any type of writing, not just journalism. For example, if a blog post begins with a long introduction before finally getting to the main point, then the writer has “buried the lead.”
Origin of the Phrase
The phrase “bury the lead” is believed to have originated in the newspaper industry in the mid-1800s. In those days, newspapers were printed on large sheets of paper and sent out to subscribers. The front page was usually filled with local news, while the second page contained national and international news.
To save space, writers would often place the most important information of a story on the second page. This would force readers to flip through the pages in order to find the key details. Thus, the phrase “bury the lead” was born.
Tips for Avoiding Burying the Lead in Your Writing
When writing any type of article or story, it is important to make sure that the lead is clear and concise. Here are some tips for avoiding buried leads:
Focus on the Most Important Information First
When writing a lead, it is important to focus on the most important information first. This will ensure that readers understand what the story is about right away. Start by asking yourself: What is the most important thing I want readers to know? Once you have identified the key points, make sure to include them in your lead.
Make Sure That the Lead is Accurate and Relevant
It is also important to make sure that the lead is accurate and relevant to the story. Avoid using vague or generic language, as this will not capture the attention of readers. Instead, focus on providing specific details that will draw readers in.
Avoid Lengthy Introductions
Finally, avoid writing lengthy introductions that do not get to the point. While it is important to provide some context, try to keep the lead as concise as possible. Aim for one or two sentences that clearly explain the main point of the story.
Analyzing Examples of Buried Leads
To better understand what it means to bury the lead, let’s take a look at some examples.
Example 1:
The mayor of Smallville announced today that he will be resigning from office next week. He cited personal reasons for his decision but did not elaborate on the specifics. Mayor Johnson has served in the position for the last four years and his resignation will take effect on Friday.
In this example, the most important information (the mayor’s resignation) is buried at the end of the lead. Readers have to wade through several sentences before finally learning the main point of the story.
Example 2:
The city of Smallville is in the midst of a political scandal involving the mayor. Mayor Johnson is accused of misusing public funds for personal gain and has been under investigation for the past month. He announced today that he will be resigning from office next week.
In this example, the lead focuses on the scandal instead of the mayor’s resignation. While this is an important detail, it is not the most important part of the story. As a result, the lead is considered to be buried.
Example 3:
Mayor Johnson of Smallville announced today that he will be resigning from office next week due to personal reasons. He has served in the position for the last four years and his resignation will take effect on Friday.
This example contains a clear and concise lead that gets to the point right away. The most important information (the mayor’s resignation) is presented upfront, making it easy for readers to understand the main point of the story.
The Impact of Burying the Lead on Reader Engagement
When a lead is buried, it can have a negative impact on reader engagement. Readers may become frustrated if they have to wade through a lengthy introduction before finally getting to the point. As a result, they may lose interest and stop reading altogether.
On the other hand, a clear and concise lead can help to engage readers and encourage them to keep reading. A well-written lead can also help to establish the tone and direction of the rest of the story.
How to Write an Effective Lead Without Bury the Lead
To ensure that your lead is effective and engaging, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Keep it Concise
As mentioned earlier, it is important to keep the lead as concise as possible. Aim for one or two sentences that clearly explain the main point of the story. Avoid using vague language or overly-complicated words.
Use Strong Words
When crafting your lead, use strong words that will grab the attention of readers. Choose words that evoke emotion and create an image in the reader’s mind. This will help to engage readers and keep them interested in the story.
Utilize Reader Engagement Techniques
Finally, utilize reader engagement techniques to keep readers hooked. Ask questions, provide intriguing details, and make bold statements to draw readers in. This will ensure that your lead is effective and engaging.
A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding What it Means to Bury the Lead
Bury the lead is a phrase used to describe any situation where the most important information is not given upfront. It can occur in any type of writing, including journalism, blogs, and novels. To avoid burying the lead, it is important to focus on the most important information first, make sure that the lead is accurate and relevant, and avoid lengthy introductions. Additionally, utilize reader engagement techniques to make sure that your lead is engaging and effective. By following these tips, you can ensure that your lead is clear and concise, and that readers will stay engaged throughout your story.
Understanding what it means to bury the lead is essential for any writer. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your lead is effective and engaging, and that readers will stay hooked throughout your story.
Conclusion
In conclusion, burying the lead is a common mistake made by many writers. It occurs when the most important information is placed too far down in the story, instead of upfront. To avoid burying the lead, focus on the most important information first, make sure that the lead is accurate and relevant, and avoid lengthy introductions. Additionally, utilize reader engagement techniques to make sure that your lead is engaging and effective. By following these tips, you can ensure that your lead is clear and concise, and that readers will stay engaged throughout your story.
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