: Instead of a dry summary, start with a character or a startling statistic to grab attention.

: Use active verbs and present tense (e.g., "City Council Approves New Transit Plan" instead of "New Transit Plan was Approved").

: Follow the lede with a "nut graf"—a single paragraph that explains exactly why this story matters to the reader right now. 3. Body: The Inverted Pyramid

: Immediately address Who, What, Where, When, and Why.

: Use numbers or emotional "power words" to spark curiosity. 2. The Lede (Opening Paragraph)