Start Anecdotal Essay

With so many sources of information – newspapers, magazines, TV, radio and the internet – audiences simply are not willing to read beyond the first paragraph (and even sentence) of a story unless it grabs their interest. It gives readers the most important information in a clear, concise and interesting manner.It also establishes the voice and direction of an article.Make sure the anecdote is relevant by choosing a story that directly relates in some way to your bigger story.

If you use this approach, specificity and concrete detail are essential and the broader significance of the anecdote should be explained within the first few sentences following the lead.

Other types of leads: A large number of other approaches exist, and writers should not feel boxed in by formulas.

Note that it is brief (15 words) and uses an active sentence construction.

Commentary: This lead is more representative of the less timely, more analytical approach that some newspapers are taking in their print editions.

An essay can be anything and everything which can perfectly explain and comment on a given subject.

An anecdote lead is one of about six standard journalism leads that can draw your reader into your story. Choose an anecdote that is simple, relevant and has intrinsic value.

It covers who, what and when, but also why it matters to readers.

Again, it uses active verbs, it is specific (170 occasions) and it is brief (35 words).

14, 2005 Commentary: This lead addresses the traditional who, what and when.

If this information had been reported on TV or radio the day before, this lead might not be a good one for the print edition of the newspaper; however, if the reporter had an exclusive or posted this information online as soon as it became available, then this lead would make sense.