Write Leads That Actually Get Read
Here's the truth: most journalistic pieces lose readers in the first paragraph. Not because the story lacks value, but because the lead fails to grab attention. Our program focuses on the craft of writing compelling leads that pull readers into your narrative and keep them there.
We're starting our next cohort in February 2026, working with journalists who want to sharpen their opening paragraphs, rethink structure, and develop instincts for what hooks readers right from the start. This isn't about formulas or templates—it's about understanding reader psychology and mastering the mechanics of strong opening lines.
Building Leads That Work
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Understanding Reader Attention Spans
Why do some leads work while others fall flat? We analyze real examples from Malaysian and international publications, dissecting what makes readers stop scrolling and start reading.
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Lead Types and When to Use Them
Anecdotal, direct, descriptive, question-based—each approach serves different story types. You'll learn which format fits your subject matter and how to execute it effectively.
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The Rhythm of Opening Paragraphs
Sentence length matters. Word choice matters. Pacing matters. We break down the technical elements that create flow and momentum in your opening paragraphs.
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Editing Your Own Work
Writing the first draft is one skill. Recognizing what needs fixing is another. You'll develop critical editing instincts specifically for tightening and strengthening leads.
How This Program Actually Works
We're not lecturing for twelve weeks. Instead, you'll write, get feedback, rewrite, and repeat. Each session builds on the previous one, with real assignments based on current news cycles and story opportunities.
Weekly Writing Assignments
You'll write multiple leads each week for different story types. Some will be short news pieces, others feature-length. The variety helps you develop flexibility and recognize patterns.
Peer Review Sessions
Learning to critique other people's work sharpens your own editing eye. You'll participate in structured feedback sessions, giving and receiving constructive input on lead effectiveness.
Real Performance Analysis
When possible, we track reader engagement with published leads. Understanding what actually performs well versus what just sounds good teaches valuable lessons about audience behavior.
What Happens After You Complete This
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You'll Have a Portfolio of Strong Leads
Throughout the program, you'll accumulate dozens of polished opening paragraphs across different story categories. This becomes proof of your capability when pitching editors or applying for positions.
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Faster First Drafts
Once you internalize lead structures and develop instincts for strong openings, your initial writing speed improves. You'll spend less time staring at blank screens and more time crafting effective narratives.
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Better Engagement with Your Work
Stronger leads mean more readers stick with your stories. While we can't promise specific metrics, participants often notice improved reader retention and more positive feedback on their published pieces.