Writing an Inverted-Pyramid News Story WHAT IS THE INVERTED PYRAMID? The inverted pyramid is the most common structure used in hard news writing. Information is arranged from most important to least important, allowing readers to quickly understand the essential facts and editors to cut from the bottom without losing critical meaning. This structure developed in the late 19th century and remains the standard in professional newsrooms, including those following Associated Press style. WHY JOURNALISTS USE THE INVERTED PYRAMID •
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The inverted pyramid serves several practical purposes: Readers get the news fast. Many readers skim; the lead delivers the key facts immediately. Editors can cut easily. Stories can be shortened from the bottom up without rewriting. Facts are prioritized. The most newsworthy material comes first. Clarity over drama. Unlike fiction, news values accuracy and efficiency over suspense.
THE THREE MAIN PARTS OF AN INVERTED-PYRAMID STORY 1. The Lead (Lede) The lead is the first sentence or two of the story. It answers the most important of the Five Ws and One H: • Who • What • When • Where • Why