This term holds immense significance to you and your ability to write an engaging news story. It refers to the paragraph following the lede, acting as the explanatory core that clarifies the 5 W’s (Who, What, When, Where, Why).
Example of a Nut Graf — from Ryne Ryskoski
Things to note
- The brief one-sentence lede
- The multi-paragraph nut graf which leads into an important quote
The Role of the Nut Graf
- It unpacks the main point of the story, providing context, significance, and additional details that enrich the reader’s understanding. It answers the essential question – “So what, why should I read this?”
- The nut graf bridges the gap between the initial attention grab of the lead and the deeper exploration within the story. It sets the stage for the details, evidence, and quotes that follow.
“Nut Graf” vs. “Lede”
While both the lede and nut graf are crucial elements of a news story, they serve distinct purposes. The lede grabs attention and introduces the main point, while the nut graf elaborates on the “why” behind the news, adding context and significance.