What does the term "lead" refer to in journalism?

• A. A summary of the entire story
• B. An editorial piece
• C. The opening sentence or paragraph that summarizes key information
• D. A quote that captures the essence of a story

Answer: (C)

In journalism, the term "lead" specifically refers to the opening sentence or paragraph of a news story that conveys the most critical information. It serves to engage readers by summarizing the essence of the story, including the who, what, when, where, why, and sometimes how. This concise presentation helps readers quickly grasp the main point, encouraging them to read further. A strong lead is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire article and informs readers about the significance of the news being reported.

The other options describe different elements of writing but do not accurately reflect what a lead is. For example, a summary of the entire story could be a concluding paragraph or a different aspect of the writing process. An editorial piece pertains to opinions rather than news reporting, and a quote, while powerful, captures only a part of the story rather than summarizing it in a leadership position. Thus, the choice that defines the lead correctly aligns with its core function in journalism.