news writing basics structure leads nutgraf adapted from “newspaper story structure,” by nanette...
TRANSCRIPT
News Writing Basics
Structure
Leads
Nutgraf
Adapted from “Newspaper Story Structure,” by Nanette Asimov,
San Francisco Chronicle
Basic Structure
LeadSummary/more detailSexy quoteNutgrafSummary of what’s to comeQuoteTransition (repeat Q/T a few times)Real-time color, anecdotes, examplesThe past/ futureThe kicker/upward spin
A Lead Should:
Tell readers what the story is about
Make them want to read the story
Create the proper mood for the story
Example
The Saddleback Valley school board voted unanimously last night to raise the hurdle for high school graduation by adding more mandatory math and science classes.
5 Ws
Who: school board
What: unanimous vote
Where: high school
When: last night
Why: To raise high school grad requirements
A Nutgraf Should:
Justify the story
Provide a transition
Explain why the story is timely
Include supporting material
Answer the ‘so what’
Be in graf 4 (generally)
Example
The school board’s action mirrors efforts around the country to raise academic standards. Embarrassed by American students’ poor performance on international achievement test in recent years, and pressured by colleges to produce better-prepared graduates, public educators nationwide are turning back to basics.
Nutgraf Basics
Support with evidence
Anticipate questions
Concrete reasons
Never give away the ending